Driving a Semi In Winter

Winter Tips For Driving a Semi

Driving a compact car is difficult enough in the snow, so we can only imagine how nerve-wrecking it must be driving a big rig that is hauling thousands of pounds worth of commerce. Driving in wintry conditions is challenging for everyone and leads to several accidents each year from rear ends and vehicles swerving off the road. In fact, according to the Federal Highway Administration, over 5.7 million motor vehicle accidents each year are winter-related. In 2014 alone, 476,000 of accidents involved large trucks and buses.

Okay, we didn't mean to scare you with the numbers, butwe want to drill in the importance of driving carefully this season. Here are winter tips for truckers that are driving large haulers this month:

Don't Worry. Just Breathe

Ever heard the expression "Worrying is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but won't get you anywhere?" Well, you won't feel better driving in the snow if you are constantly worrying about what could happen instead of focusing on what is around you. Relax. Take several deep breaths, and calm down. You got this.

Waiting It Out

If you are saying to yourself "No, I don't have this," that's okay. Get off at the next exit and wait for the storm to pass. Grab a cup of coffee at a restaurant; swing into a 24-hour resting area or just hangout on the side of the road. Either way, trust your gut, and know when you've had enough. We know you have deadlines, butyou are more important.

Slow Down

We can't stress this enough. We know you want to get out of this situation as quickly as possible, butyou have a long road ahead, so don't come to a sudden stop [and potentially hydroplane] and don't accelerate your actions. Most drivers cruise under the speed limit in snowy conditions, and you should, too. Remember, it takes approximately 525 feet for your over-sized vehicle to come to a complete stop in regular conditions.

Let the Light Be Your Guide

Having a strong pair of LED or halogen headlights is good under any circumstance, butit is especially helpful in the wintry conditions. LED and halogen headlights are the best type of lighting technology on the market and are available for all types of motor vehicles. Not only will these bright headlights help guide you through the falling snow, butthey are highly visible and will help others easily spot you. If you haven't replaced your headlights in a long time, consider doing so.

Signal Your Movements

Don't be that person that just cuts people off – especially not during these frosty months. Most accidents from large trucks are due to lane changes, and you need all the help you can get to alert nearby vehicles of your movement. Use your signal lights. Every time.

Bring Supplies

Anything could happen on the road. Prepare a bag full of warm clothes and blankets. Don't forget to throw in supplies such as a flashlight, gloves, shovel, road flares/matches, jumper cables, and traction devices. You'll be glad you did.

Keep on Truckin'

While America relies on truckers to bring goods to their hometowns, we understand that driving in the winter is a challenge and may bring setbacks. Keep calm; pull over, if necessary, and above all, drive safely.