Before we know it, fall is out of here and winter found its way back. To make sure you are prepared for this up and coming winter, we want to make sure you are taking all the precautions possible when traveling and driving in winter weather conditions. We also want to stress the importance that you are prepared for the worst just in case you get stranded. Sometimes when you aren’t expecting to be out long, the weather can take a turn for the worst and you may not have everything you need. It may be a hassle to lug around spear items but you’ll be grateful when they come in handy!
Tips on preparing for the worst:
Grab an extra set of gloves, hat, scarf, coat, spare set of clothes, and a blanket with you because maybe the set you are wearing got ripped, lost or even wet. You just never know the situation you could get in. Pack some extra food like protein bars, nuts, or something that will give you some energy. Throw a case of water in your cab that way you aren’t dehydrated and have access to clean water. Have sand, salt or tire chains accessible in case your trailer gets stuck and there isn’t any other way to get out. You will also want to have jumper cables, a spare battery, or any charging equipment because you don’t want dead batteries to prevent you from getting help. Having plenty of gas will make it easier to control the semi because this will add extra weight.
Tips while traveling:
The biggest factor of accidents is going entirely too fast. Slow down, its okay to go a bit slower when the roads are covered in ice and snow because you’d rather be safe than sorry. Keep a safe distance between your truck and the vehicle in front of you. When a car unexpectedly breaks you want enough reaction time before you slide into their rear end. This goes along with not traveling as part of a pack because you want to maximize the amount of distance around your truck. It is highly important to clean off your tractor and trailer lights whenever you get the chance. Your lights are highly vital especially when it’s dark out when the weather isn’t the best. You want to keep everything clean, that way you can be seen!
Keep an eye on your equipment:
Try not to push your truck and trailer beyond its limits just to make deadlines especially when the weather isn’t the best. If you are nervous about how the weather is shaping out, just say parking. A nervous truck driver can be just as dangerous as a careless driver. Keep an eye on your trailer tires because the last thing you want is a flat tire or worse, frozen brakes.