Winter brings unique challenges for semi-truck drivers. Icy roads, reduced visibility, and harsh conditions can make even experienced drivers nervous. At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., we understand the risks truck drivers face during the colder months. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe on the road this winter.
Prepare Your Truck
Before hitting the road, thoroughly inspect your vehicle. Take extra care to:
- Check your engine oil, antifreeze levels, and tire pressure
- Ensure your heater and windshield defroster work properly
- Clean your mirrors and lights, turning on heated mirrors if available
- Verify your tires meet FMCSA guidelines for tread depth
A proper pre-trip inspection can prevent many issues down the road.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Always carry an emergency kit containing the following:
- Snow chains (at least four if traveling in areas with chain laws)
- Flashlights or electric lanterns
- Heavy clothing for extreme cold
- An extra sleeping bag or blankets
- Non-perishable food and water
- Battery-powered radio or CB radio
- Extra cell phone charger or battery bank
These items can be lifesavers if you become stranded in harsh conditions.
Mind Your Speed
Posted speed limits are for ideal conditions. However, in winter weather, you should always reduce your speed to match road conditions. You should also be prepared to slow down when crossing bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster than regular roads. Allow extra time for deliveries so you are not tempted to go too fast.
Maintain Safe Distances
Wintery conditions make keeping a buffer zone around your truck even more essential than usual. As such, you should increase following distance behind other vehicles and avoid driving too close to other trucks, even when traveling together. Be particularly cautious of other drivers who may not understand safe stopping distances for large trucks.
Be Cautious of Black Ice
Black ice is a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice on the road. Watch for clues such as the lack of spray from tires on vehicles ahead, ice buildup on antennas or mirror arms, and the sudden disappearance of road noise.
When in doubt, assume the road might be icy.
Use Gentle Inputs
In slippery conditions, be sure to:
- Accelerate slowly and steadily
- Brake gently, using light pumping motions if your truck lacks ABS
- Make smooth, gradual steering inputs
Sudden movements can cause loss of control on icy roads.
Know When to Pull Over
There’s no shame in playing it safe. If conditions feel hazardous, trust your instincts and find a safe place to park. Don’t push through white-out conditions or extremely icy roads. Remember that it’s better to arrive late than not at all.
Carry Traction Aids
Pack materials to help you get unstuck, such as non-clumping cat litter, road salt, or ice melt. Spread these in front of and behind your drive tires if you’re stuck on ice.
Use Anti-Gel in Your Fuel
In extremely cold temperatures, you may need to add anti-gel to your diesel fuel to prevent it from thickening. Be sure to follow your company’s guidelines on fuel additives. You may also wish to consider allowing your truck to idle in very cold weather to prevent fuel gelling.
By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to face winter’s challenges on the road. Remember, no load is worth risking your safety.
Contact Our North Dakota Truck Accident Lawyer
At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., we’ve been serving North Dakota for over a century, handling some of the state’s largest verdicts and settlements in personal injury cases, including those involving truck accidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a winter trucking accident, our team is here to help. We can guide you through the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a free initial consultation.
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. is committed to supporting individuals in North Dakota, including Grand Forks, Minot, Fargo, Bismarck, Williston, Rugby, Devils Lake, Jamestown, and the surrounding areas. Our dedicated team is here to provide legal assistance and guidance to those facing the complex challenges that arise from these incidents.
