Truck drivers are an essential part of our day to day lives, responsible for delivering the necessary products we use regularly. During the hectic holiday season, we rely even more heavily on workers like truck drivers – though the winter months can make their jobs more dangerous than usual. Scroll down for a few tips on how to stay safe on winter roads as a truck driver this season.
Go slow
The easiest step to take to keep yourself and those around you safe on the road is to slow down. Even though driving the speed limit is always legal, it still may not be the safest option during winter months when roads may be slick with rain, sleet, or snow. Regardless of your destination, take as much time as you need to get there safely.
Ride solo
For whatever reason, traffic tends to travel in groups. Try to stay as far away from the pack as possible, and make sure you’re giving yourself an appropriate amount of distance from other vehicles to ensure you can be ready to maneuver if you need to. When caught in unavoidable traffic, make sure to keep a safe following distance from the driver in front of yo9u, roughly a quarter of a mile – especially on winter roads that may be slick and effect break times.
Check in
When frequently driving long distances, it’s important that the driver regularly check in with both themselves and their vehicle. Be aware of how long you’ve been driving without a break and take note of your level of awareness often. It’s common that people who are used to driving long distance without stopping, like truckers, don’t notice when they begin to tire out on the road. The Highway Code recommends taking a break of at least fifteen minutes every two hours while driving for extended periods of time.
Additionally, it’s important to routinely check your vehicle before hitting the road. Before engaging in long drives, make sure all main components of your truck are working properly including the breaks, heaters, wipers, lights, and defrosters. Even when in a hurry, ensuring that your truck is road-ready is one of the best ways to have a safe trip.
Truck accidents can be disastrous for all parties involved. In the even of an accident, our team of attorneys is here to take on your case. Contact us here for a free consultation and learn more about our experience with truck accident cases here.