Winter Truck Driving Tips & Tricks

Winter driving demands extra caution and preparation to guarantee road safety. As a responsible driver, it’s crucial to follow best practices and take necessary precautions for safe vehicle operation in any weather. You can access many useful tips and resources for secure winter driving, so research and stay informed.

Some of these strategies include info like learning to assess road conditions, keeping track of the upcoming weather forecast, and talking with other drivers in the area to hear what they’re experiencing. This can give you a good idea of what you might be experiencing along your route.

But a big part of being safe on the road means looking closely at your truck and making sure it’s able to perform in all sorts of conditions. Learning how to prepare your truck for the winter is essential, which can include making sure it’s ready for all types of road and weather conditions plus has all the necessary supplies you need to keep on rolling or pulling off the road safely in the event of closures or dangerous storms.

Properly preparing your truck can include:

Checking the Battery

• The battery powers everything, including lights and heat. If everything works well, it will keep things charged every time you drive. But if the battery gets too weak or if your alternator doesn’t work as well, there’s an increased possibility of the battery dying or not powering things up enough. You’ll have enough to worry about on scary roads without having to worry about a battery wearing out. Testing your battery regularly can you let you know how much power is left and if it’s time to change it. Battery maintenance also includes removing any corrosion on battery posts and terminals. Then you can apply battery terminal protectant spray.

Look At Your Tires

• The condition of tractor-trailer tires is especially important since they’re on road for so long and drivers need all the traction they can receive. Losing tread can increase the chance of slipping. Buying truck tires more often can be more expensive and more frequent than household cars, but they are an essential. Even if they’re in good shape, you should still check air levels.

Keep A First-Aid Kit in Your Truck

• You never know if you’ll be in accident or run across one. Being injured doesn’t always have to mean a collision either – you can hurt yourself while putting on chains, checking the engine, or scraping the windshield. A kit can help you, a passenger, a fellow driver, or anyone you run across who might need basic first aid. You don’t have to have advanced training to offer or apply a bandage.

Emergency Roadside Supplies

• In a winter storm situation involving road closures, you may have to pull over or even stay in the traffic lane while the road is closed. Often, an accident can cause the road to be closed for hours. You may not be near any services, and you don’t want to drain your battery by leaving the heat on. So, your emergency kit can include blankets, food, water and similar supplies.

Be Mindful of Fueling Stops

• Check fuel status. Because you don’t know how long you’ll be on the road, it’s a good idea to make sure your fuel tank has enough gas to power through a storm. Consider adding additives to keep the fuel levels precise.

Prepare For Truck Driving this Winter

Are you prepared for winter? Make sure your truck is ready to handle the cold weather with Tri-State Hazmat’s expert winterization advice. From antifreeze levels to tire tread depth, we’ll make sure every aspect of your truck is in top condition. Don’t let the winter season catch you off guard. To learn more about experienced trucking opportunities contact us today at 1-855-700-4387 or visit our website.