Weather and traffic present challenges for professional truck drivers year-round, but winter conditions take those challenges to another level. In the colder months, you might start your day in clear weather, only to encounter ice and snow, and finish the day driving through heavy rain. Hourly driver Brittany Koehler offers valuable advice for staying safe during winter weather:
- Watch for black ice. “It’s a hazard when driving and when you’re getting in and out of your truck.”
- Increase the distance between your truck and the vehicle ahead.
- Reduce your speed to maintain control and reaction time.
- Take extra care with turns to avoid skidding or tipping.
- Ensure your headlights are on to improve visibility.
- Plan ahead: Leave earlier than usual and check the forecast for your entire route.
- Stay alert for wildlife: As always, watch for deer and other animals after dusk.
VP of Maintenance Eric Evans shares additional steps to prepare your truck for winter conditions:
- Monitor your fuel level. Don’t let your tank drop below ¼ full, especially in bad weather. If you get stuck, you’ll need fuel to keep the truck running and stay warm.
- Keep extra windshield washer fluid on hand, and make sure your reservoir is full to maintain clear visibility.
- Drain air tanks daily to prevent water from freezing in the air system.
- Use a gladhand hanger to keep hoses off the catwalk and prevent ice buildup in the gladhands.
- Locate your bumper tow hook. Most are secured to a bracket on the frame rail under the hood. If yours is missing, visit the shop to get a replacement.
- Test your bunk heater (for sleeper trucks) to ensure it’s working properly.
- Perform thorough pre-trip inspections. Identifying and fixing problems before hitting the road can save you from breakdowns in extreme cold.
- Check emergency equipment. Ensure your emergency triangles, flashlight, and batteries are in working order. Consider investing in a rechargeable flashlight.
- Carry essential tools. Pack a plastic bin or tote with items like vise grips, a hammer, duct tape, a utility knife, an air pressure gauge, zip ties, wheel chocks, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, and a small amount of rubbing alcohol to address frozen airlines.
- Bring an ice scraper and snow brush to keep mirrors and windows clear and to remove snow from the 5th wheel, preventing high hooking.
Finally, prepare yourself for winter weather:
- Pack a winter emergency kit. Fill a backpack, tote bag, or box with essentials like a blanket, an extra jacket or insulated coveralls, a raincoat, wool socks and a hat, a reflective vest, warm gloves, a first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, and an emergency bathroom container with wipes or paper.
- Stock food and water. Keep a few bottles of water and high-protein snacks or energy bars in your truck.
- Carry a one-day supply of your medications in case of delays.
- Wear proper footwear with soles that provide traction on snow and ice.
- Keep your phone charged while driving to ensure it’s ready when you need it.
Many of these items can also come in handy if you find yourself assisting another driver or motorist in need. Winter driving can be unpredictable, but with proper preparation and vigilance, you can tackle the challenges safely and effectively.
