October 9, 2024
How to Start Preparing for Your Winter Weather Safety Measures Now
As temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, winter road conditions present significant challenges for truckers. Preparing your fleet for these conditions is critical to ensuring the safety of drivers and the efficiency of your operations. According to the Federal Highway Administration, over 70% of the nation’s roads are in snowy regions, and nearly 24% of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, icy, or slushy pavement. The time to act is now.
Start with Tire Maintenance
“Tire maintenance cannot be overstated when it comes to winter trucking safety,” says Daniel Vega, Director of Safety at Reliance Partners. Ensuring proper tread depth, even tire wear, and correct tire pressure can make a massive difference in winter driving. Vega also emphasizes stocking tire chains in the cab for routes through heavy snow. While chains can be more affordable than snow tires, both provide crucial traction in icy conditions.
Inspection and Route Planning
Winter conditions make vehicle inspections even more important. Alongside regular checks, drivers should also inspect batteries, defrosters, heaters, and windshield wipers. Cold temperatures can weaken batteries, and snow accumulation on trailer tops can pose significant dangers, as drivers are liable for anything that falls off.
Route planning is also critical in the winter. Drivers should not only plan their route ahead of time but also stay updated on local weather conditions. Fuel planning is equally important—cold weather can increase fuel consumption, and it’s recommended that drivers avoid letting their fuel drop below half a tank.
Safety Kits and Training
Winter driving safety kits are essential and should include extra clothing, blankets, non-perishable food, water, and an ice scraper. Additionally, training drivers on defensive driving techniques is crucial for winter preparedness. Workshops on managing snow and ice, adjusting speeds, and maintaining safe distances can help drivers navigate the roads more confidently.
Focus on Safety First
The goal of winter preparation is not just to meet safety standards but to exceed them. As Vega advises, “Focus on tire maintenance and defensive driving, especially before the season starts.”
Check out the full article from our friends at FreightWaves.
