According to data gathered by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Department, 98 percent of the average annual occupational truck driver fatalities were transportation incidents. 24 percent of these transportation incidents occurred during the winter months; between December and February.

At Waller Truck, we pride ourselves on putting safety first and avoiding accidents whenever possible. Of course, there are unique challenges that commercial drivers are likely to encounter during the dreaded winter months.

Everyone knows that snow can increase the danger of driving in the winter. Many do not realize that there are several other winter-specific dangers that are every bit as bad as snow, however. Sleet, ice, water, slush, or the cold itself; can just as easily cause a serious accident. And these conditions can’t always be avoided.

More than 70 percent of U.S. roads are located in snowy regions and nearly 70 percent of the population reside and do business within these areas that commonly experience cold, wet conditions (FHA). So clearly, many commercial drivers will eventually find themselves in dangerous winter driving conditions.

Extra Precautions for Winter Drivers

Below is a list of the top 8 tips for winter driving; as recommended by such resources as the Federal Highway Administration, the Roadway Safety Foundation, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the DMV. This list of tips will prepare you for practically any winter driving scenario.

1. Watch Your Speed

Winter driving requires you to pay some extra attention to not only your speed, but the factors around you that indicate you should slow down. If the speed limit on a highway is normally 65 mph, that doesn’t mean that 65 mph is a safe speed for all conditions. In snowy conditions, for instance, the following speed reductions are enforced nationwide:

• In light snow conditions, highway and freeway speeds are reduced by 3 to 13 percent
• In heavy snow conditions, highway and freeway speeds are reduced by 5 to 40 percent
• If snow, slush, or ice are present on arterial roads speed is reduced by 30 to 40 percent

2. Be Aware of Your Follow Distance

We’ve all noticed that highway and freeway traffic seem to travel in ‘packs’. We highly recommend that you avoid such behavior while driving in poor weather conditions. Both ice and snow can severely inhibit your brakes’ ability to come to a timely stop because they decrease traction. We recommend that you give your truck a cushion of roughly ¼ mile whenever possible, to avoid collisions.

3. Remember That It’s Okay to Stop

If you find yourself in dangerous driving conditions, it is perfectly acceptable for you to stop and wait the storm out. This must be done in a safe, appropriate location, however.

Avoid pulling on to the shoulder if you are caught in a storm or faced with frozen or snowy pavement ahead. The shoulder of the road is soft and can be compromised by inclement weather conditions. A truck weighing upwards of 10,000 lbs. requires a lot of support. Instead, take an exit, pull completely off of the road, or find a rest stop.

4. Be Prepared for the Worst

One of the top tips that we want to share with you is that it is best to be prepared for anything before you ever even get on the road. Take the time to check over your rig and trailer, making sure the following are in working order:

• Fuel can congeal in cold weather and may need to be treated with anti-gel
• Check all of your signal lights, including brakes, head, tail, turn, and hazard lights
• Check wipers, fluids, mirrors, and motors
• Ensure that your truck’s defrost and heater are working properly
• Check any other parts or systems that require regular maintenance

5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Oftentimes, the first storm of the season creates regional panic and chaos. Everyone is rushing to take care of things before the storm really sets in, trying to reach their destination quickly, etc. Checking the local weather alerts for areas you are driving through is a great way to stay informed about potential risks or dangers.

6. Exercise Caution on Entrance/Exit Ramps

Maintaining your tire traction can be particularly tricky on snowy or icy ramps in the wintertime. These sections of the road frequently curve much more sharply than other areas. To avoid problems in these areas, reduce your speed before entering/exiting the ramp, accelerate slowly, and do not overturn the wheel.

7. Always Be Prepared

Whether you decide to drive through the inclement weather or take a break, accidents can still happen in spite of your best efforts. That’s why it is important to be prepared for anything. If you’re in an accident or are forced to pull off of the road you could be stuck for a while.

Keep a bundle of important survival items with you at all times. Include things such as:

• Cold weather clothing and blankets that are appropriate for nighttime
• Non-perishable foods and a supply of drinking water
• A fully-charged communication device such as a cell phone
• A flashlight or lantern
• Cold-weather truck gear such as chains and anti-gel formula

8. Mountain Driving Can Be the Most Treacherous in Winter

Poor weather conditions in any area can cause a variety of problems. Mountainous terrain is especially difficult for truck drivers to navigate in the snow, ice, or slush. Mountain roads are notorious for steep grades and very sharp, tight turns. Just take it nice and slow on mountain roads and try to avoid driving in storms.

Follow These 8 Tips to Keep You Safe on Winter Roads

Waller Truck encourages you to use these tips when driving in inclement weather. Using one or more of these tips could potentially save lives, including your own. For more statistics on cold weather related accidents, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.