6 safe winter driving tips for truck drivers

Winter is here, bringing rain, sleet, snow and frigid temperatures. These weather conditions can make it harder for fleet vehicles and drivers to perform safely on the road. 

Winter driving has a big impact across the U.S. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, there’s an average of 6,035,000 vehicle crashes each year, and approximately 12% are weather-related (that’s nearly 745,000).^1. Eighteen percent of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy or icy pavement.^1. 

Over 70% of U.S roads are in snowy regions that receive more than five inches of annual average snowfall,^2. meaning that the potential impact of winter driving on fleet travels can be significant. The estimated annual cost of weather-related delays for trucking companies is $8.659 billion.^3.

Want more winter truck driving tips? Check out this winter fleet checklist. 

To help keep your fleet protected and productive this winter season, here are our top six winter driving tips for truck drivers. 

Tip #1: Winterize your fleet vehicles properly 

Have trucks serviced for routine maintenance before winter driving weather begins. Check tire pressure and consider switching to snow/winter tires, check the battery, install new windshield wipers, top off windshield washer fluid, change the oil, change air filters, keep gas tanks half-to-completely filled and wash vehicles to ensure nothing obstructs a driver’s view of the roadway 

Tip #2: Complete a thorough brake inspection on all vehicles 

 On snowy and/or icy roads, it takes far longer to stop than in regular road conditions. It’s important to verify that the brake pads, brake discs and steering are all working correctly on every truck before winter driving. 

Tip #3: Stay on top of weather conditions  

 Winter weather can be unpredictable. It’s important to check the weather forecast before every road trip to plan the best route. It’s equally important to regularly recheck for weather updates to monitor for sudden storms or snow events. 

Tip #4: Carry a well-stocked emergency kit 

 Every fleet vehicle should have a winter kit on hand for emergencies, with water, food, blankets, flashlights, road flares, first aid essentials and reflective vests included. These items are invaluable to keep drivers safe during an emergency, like being trapped on roads cut off by snow. Snow chains should also be in every vehicle that doesn’t use winter tires. 

Tip #5: Reinforce driving precautions with your team 

When driving in winter conditions, truck drivers should exercise extra caution. Remind them to reduce speed and increase following distance to avoid close calls. If the vehicle slides on black ice or slippery roads, drivers should turn into the skid. Additionally, drivers should avoid distractions and be particularly careful on winding mountain roads and bridges, which are prone to freezing first.

How can Verizon Connect Reveal help you reduce winter idling? See the tips here. 

Tip #6: Take advantage of the benefits of telematics 

In addition to keeping tabs on weather, telematics and GPS tracking can help drivers and vehicles in other ways. If an accident or emergency occurs, their exact location can be pinpointed to ensure help gets there quickly. 

Fast roadside assistance is essential in winter weather. See how fleet roadside assistance can get drivers and vehicles on the road safely, faster. 

While winter weather can hinder productivity and increase safety risks, being proactively prepared to drive in it is a fleet’s best defense. Combining these winter truck driving tips with the right technology solution that tracks their location, helps them navigate evolving conditions and rewards safe driving can make a world of difference for your fleet. 

Schedule a demo today to see how telematics can help your organization promote fleet safety during winter months and all year round. 

^1. https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/q1_roadimpact.htm

^2. https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/weather_events/snow_ice.htm

^3. https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/q1_roadimpact.htm