Whether you’re just out of truck driver school or a seasoned veteran on the roads, winter weather can make operating your rig a tricky proposition.
Here are winter driving safety tips for commercial driver’s to make rational decisions and be safe out on the roads this winter.
Prepare for the Worst:
Even though the weather may not look bad as you head out, it can change in a hurry. Once the cold weather hits, it’s best to be prepared for the worst. These items are good to have in case the weather changes for the worst:
- Gloves
- Rain gear
- Warm jacket for nighttime temperatures
- Food and water
- Salt or Sand to help keep your tires from spinning if you get stuck
- Windshield wipers
- Windshield washer fluid
- Plenty of gas. Try not to go below half a tank.
- Tire chains
- Jumper cables
- Batteries and electronic charging equipment. You don’t want dead batteries to prevent you for getting help.
Additional things to do to be prepared are:
- Sign up for Weather Alerts
- Check your Equipment (headlights, brake lights and hazard lights)
- Control your Speed and Avoid Skidding (Pump the brakes, shift to neutral)
- Watch for Trouble Spots (exit ramps, bridges, black ice, intersections, windy areas)
- Maintain Tire Traction
- Don’t be Afraid to Stop
- Get Help
For more details, visit https://www.dmv.org/cdl/winter-driving-safety-tips.php