The anxiety that comes along with driving through challenging weather conditions for the first time is sometimes problematic. Fortunately, the more times you do so, the more experience and confidence you can gain.
Did you know that of the 5.8 million automobile accidents in the US, approximately 21%, or 1.2 million, are due to detrimental weather conditions? Admittedly, the weather is unpredictable, so truck drivers need to stay prepared.
That said, there is a lot that you must do. The first phase could be ensuring that your truck is ready to handle all that emerges from the heavy rains, ice, snow, or thunderstorms. You’re probably thinking about the next move, right? Well, check out below to learn the essential skills and strategies to help you navigate problematic weather conditions.
1. Look at The Weather Forecasts
Although we constantly experience weather changes, the reports from various meteorological departments can help you project what can happen within the day or over the week. As a professional truck driver, you will always be ahead if you check out the real-time weather forecasts before starting your trips.
Routinely check trucker news to know whether to expect heavy rains or snowy conditions. You can even consider turning on notifications on such sites or apps for up-to-date alerts.
2. Understand Risks
When you know the terrible things that can happen while driving through tricky weather conditions, you will always look for ways to avoid them. Notably, that doesn’t mean that you should wait for the problem to come up so that you can think about solutions. Instead, it would be best to always use the principle of “prevention is better than cure.”
Acknowledge that adverse weather can lead to poor visibility and slippery roads. Since it affects how you can control your truck, it will ultimately cause accidents.
When you recognize the risk of driving in bad weather, amplifying the proactive safety procedures will be easy. For example, you can prepare early to ensure the truck’s fog lights work optimally and the tires have an excellent grip.
3. Reduce Speed
As a truck driver, you must adjust your truck’s speed to match the prevailing conditions. The rule applies whether you encounter fog, snow, or rain. Ideally, you should drive slowly through the slippery road sections.
When it comes to roads with reduced visibility, you need extra caution. You must increase the following distance, engage the lower gear, and use the headlights appropriately. Even when you have to quickly deliver amidst bad weather conditions, you should also manage your speed.
4. Stay In Track For Too Harsh Weather
There are instances when the weather is too harsh and unbearable for truck drivers. That doesn’t mean you should drive fast to evade or force yourself through it.
If it’s the strong wind or any other unpleasant weather, look out for the safer side of the road and pull over. If there are no shelter structures nearby, remain inside your truck. You can continue the journey knowing nothing can harm you or the truck.
On the flip side, try to avoid issues when you find yourself in a place you know nothing about. In this case, stop in safer places where robbers can’t take advantage of the adverse weather and get away with whatever it’s in transit.
5. Brake Slowly
When trapped in heavy rain or thick fog, don’t slam on those brakes recklessly in case of an emergency. Instead, be gentle and lightly bring your truck to a steady stop. In a situation where you will quickly hit the brakes, you can experience a catastrophic lockup. The subsequent event is the exact tire rolling out of control, ultimately leading to an accident.
It’s worth noting that when it rains on a paved road, the surface becomes slippery, and the tires lose traction. Therefore, be cautious and again gently tap on the brakes as required.
6. Empty Trailers Are Dangerous
As a commercial truck driver, you should know that empty trailers are dangerous. Unlike containers with supplies, empty ones can be blown over easily. Even if they can’t be affected by winds, empty trailers can have extreme shaking, which makes it challenging for the truck drivers to handle. Since driving an unsteady truck is cumbersome, ensure some weight is on the trailer to prevent possible tip-over amid the bad weather.
7. Do Proper Truck Maintenance
You will always apply all your effort and skills to navigate tricky weather safely. However, sometimes, the vehicle itself can mess you up. That is why you should do the pre-inspections before you approach any adverse weather. The overall aim is to ensure brakes, windshield wipers, and tire defrosters, among others, are working effectively.
Of significant note is the pressure on the truck’s tires. Experts state that poorly inflated tires decrease fuel efficiency and lead to blowouts due to high rolling resistance. Also, to maintain good traction on icy or wet roads, replace the worn-out tires.
Conclusion
Truck driving is demanding and more challenging, especially when navigating in adverse weather. Although there are many threats you can encounter, it’s always easy to overcome them. You should know what you’re facing by mastering the weather forecast. Again, you drive slowly and stay on track if the situation gets too harsh. With an adequately maintained truck, driving through tricky weather will be easy.
Still, you must ensure that the tires are correctly installed, the windshield is clear, and the brakes are reliable.
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