Top 5 Winter Driving Tips for Truck Drivers

Driving in the harsh winter conditions can be challenging for many truck drivers. Traveling over snow-covered or icy roads requires a specific level of caution, knowledge, and skill. Be prepared by learning essential tips for winter driving, preparing your truck, and using supplies to adjust your driving style according to weather conditions.

1. 1

   Drive Slowly

2. 2

   Maintain a Safe Buffer Zone

3. 3

   Know Your Limits

4. 4

   Carry essentials

5. 5

   Essential Trucker Supplies for On the Road in Winter

Having the knowledge of how to drive on the dangerous winter roads is crucial for truckers; it can literally save a life. According to the FMCSA, in 2020, nearly 500 fatalities and 14,000 injuries were caused during the extreme inclement weather of the winter season. Here's a breakdown of practices to keep you safe on the roads during the winter months.

Tips for Driving in The Winter Season

Drive Slowly

At-fault accidents are often due to excessive speed or possibly driving at the posted speed limit. Driving at the speed limit may be legal, but it's often too fast for snow-covered or icy roads. If an officer determines that you are driving too fast for the weather conditions, they may cite you for violating the basic speed law, regardless of the posted speed limit. Remember, the main objective is to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road, so it's crucial to adapt your driving behavior to the current weather conditions.

Maintain a Safe Buffer Zone

One reason for massive and possibly fatal pile-ups is due to the lack of leaving plenty of room between your truck and the vehicle in front, as well as beside your truck. Seeing a vehicle's tail lights is a good indicator that you are driving too closely during low visibility caused by heavy snowfall. Avoid traveling in packs, and strive to maximize the distance around your vehicle for added safety.

Know Your Limits

Every wise truck driver should prioritize safety over deadlines by making informed decisions about when it's safe to be on the road. If weather conditions make you nervous, it's okay to stay parked; communicate with your dispatch, reschedule appointments if necessary, and ensure that your equipment can handle the conditions.

Carry essentials

Having a bag of kitty litter under your bunk can provide extra traction in snowy conditions. Carry a hammer and putty knife to prevent air tanks from freezing. Regularly check trailer tires, tail-lights, and ensure all systems are a go.

Essential Trucker Supplies for On the Road in Winter

Being prepared is essential. Ensure you have the following supplies for winter driving:

- Warm clothing, winter jacket, hat, lined gloves/mitts

- Insulated socks and waterproof winter boots

- Extra blankets and/or sleeping bag

- Food, dried foods, and water supply

- Propane heater and lighter

- Fuel conditioner and methyl hydrate

- Extra fuel filters and wrench

- Tire chains

- Cell phone and charger

- Good quality lug tires/winter tires

During the harsh winter season, a TMS is an invaluable tool for a trucking company. The unpredictable and challenging weather conditions can significantly impact the efficiency and safety of transportation operations. A TMS provides real-time visibility into the entire supply chain, allowing for proactive decision-making. With up-to-date information on road conditions, weather forecasts, and potential disruptions, carriers can optimize route planning, reroute loads if necessary, and ensure the safety of both drivers and cargo. Moreover, a TMS, such as 10 Speed, facilitates effective communication between drivers, dispatchers, and other stakeholders, enabling quick adjustments to schedules and priorities. By leveraging the capabilities of a TMS, businesses can operate during the challenges brought by the winter weather and minimize disruptions. Book your demo with 10 Speed, allowing you to work effortlessly in any weather condition.

David Jordan Guerra

Logistics Market Researcher

I strive to keep myself informed by understanding the latest information involving the diverse world of the logistics industry.