Winter Truck Driving Tips

Driving large trucks in the winter is a challenge. Winter weather creates reduced visibility, reduced traction on the road, and reduced predictability of other drivers. Semi trucks still need to head out in the colder weather, but it's harder for them to reach their destination safely. We rounded up strategies below for truck drivers to still get their job done while adapting to the unique safety conditions of winter driving. For all your commercial truck needs, visit Rush Truck Centres of Canada. We proudly serve all of Ontario, from Toronto to Ottawa.

A Pre-Trip Inspection

Any performance or maintenance issues can manifest into larger problems on the road during winter due to the plummeting temperatures and poor road conditions. Plus, it's much safer to discover any issues before your trip instead of at high speeds on the highway or on a remote road far from a mechanic. It's important to regularly inspect your semi truck to ensure it's ready to handle the difficult road ahead.

Start with inspecting your truck tires to ensure they have enough tire pressure and tread. Then check your engine oil and antifreeze levels. Next, make sure everything on your truck works including the brakes, lights, and windshield wipers. Finally, check that your windows and mirrors are clean so that you can have optimized visibility on the road. If you want to make sure all the parts in your truck are up-to-date, stop by our parts department! We offer a wide selection of parts for all makes and models.

Adjust to Road Conditions

Semi trucks will need to go slower on winter roads. The reason is twofold. First, it accounts for the loss of traction trucks will experience on wet or icy roads. Second, it gives you more time to react to situations, such as a nearby vehicle sliding into your lane or an animal darting into the road.

A general rule of thumb is that it takes commercial trucks double the stopping distance on a wet road (such as after a light snow) and about ten times as much on an icy road. Leave plenty of room between you and other vehicles in case they slam on their breaks. It's also good to begin braking sooner and turn slower. Finally, try to avoid any sudden changes in speed or direction. The consistent speed and direction helps you ride smooth and safe

Visibility

It's important for semi trucks to see and be seen, which can be a challenge in winter weather conditions. Always turn on your headlights at night to compensate for the reduced visibility at night. This helps you see the road better and can help other motorists see you better.

Keep in mind you may have compromised visibility when going through an intersection or going down a one-way street. Double check that you have a safe route to go before you make your attempt.

Emergency Preparedness

It's always good to be prepared for an emergency, especially when you are driving trucks for a living! Pack a flashlight, shovel, matches, and a bag of sand. It's also prudent to have access to roadside assistance so that you can get help if you need. Finally, don't be afraid to pull over to a safe spot and wait out poor weather. Sometimes to roads are too treacherous or the storm too dangerous to justify staying on the road. It is important that you only drive your truck when it's safe to do so!

For all of your commercial truck needs, visit Rush Truck Centres of Canada. Whether you drive semi trucks or medium duty trucks, our friendly staff is ready to help. Whatever you need, you'll find it with us! We proudly serve all of Ontario.