Truck Drivers Winter Safety Tips

When you’re behind the wheel of your rig during the winter, there are extra safety precautions that need to be taken. Winter weather such as high winds, ice, snow, and cold can sneak up on even the most experienced truck drivers, and all it takes is one short moment of neglect in order for a costly mistake to occur. Winter demands increased awareness and driving skills, and it is essential that you approach driving in this season with caution and preparedness.

At Fitch & Stahle , our personal injury lawyers know the importance of truck drivers being safe during the winter. Here are some safety tips.

Be Prepared

Before departing on your trip in winter weather, it is important that you are prepared for whatever unsafe conditions may be thrown at you. Here is a list of things that you should make sure that you have in your truck when driving in winter:

●A blanket, food, and water

●Proper warm clothing and a coat

●A flashlight

●A bag of sand or salt and extra windshield wiper fluid

●Jumper cables

●Tire chains or traction mats

●At least half a tank of gas at all times

●A windshield scraper

●Spare tire

Additionally, you should complete a pre-trip inspection where all important parts are checked, including tires, wiper blades and fluid, and lights. Tire pressure should also be checked. Look for any punctures orleaks that could potentially become more severe and cause a flat on the road.

Winter Driving Tips

When you’re behind the wheel during winter conditions, you have to take extra care to avoid an auto accident. Snow, sleet, and ice can cause trucks to slide or skid, especially when there is black ice that you cannot see from your rig. Here are some ways to avoid an accident when driving in winter.

Slow Down

A large amount of winter accidents occur because the driver is going too fast. By going slower, you will have more time to react if something occurs. When you’re going too fast on ice, there is a higher likelihood of hydroplaning and skidding on ice.

Brake and Accelerate Lightly

When driving in winter, never do anything forcefully. Braking and accelerating should be done gradually in order to avoid spinning out or sliding on ice. If your vehicle has an anti-locking braking system (ABS), you should press and hold the brake down as far as possible in an emergency. If you do not have ABS, try lightly pumping your brakes.

Use Extra Caution on Bridges

Bridges and highway overpasses tend to freeze first during the winter, and many of them are not treated with salt and sand like the rest of the road. Because of this, you should approach bridges with caution.

Contact a Sioux City Personal Injury Lawyer

If you have been in a semi truck accident, make a personal injury claim with our team at Fitch & Stahle. We understand how an injury can change your life, and we will fight for you to ensure that you receive fair compensation.

To learn more about our personal injury services, contact us at (402) 494-3012.