Winter can create hazardous driving conditions across much of Canada. With slippery surfaces, dangerously cold weather and visibility issues prevalent during these months, drivers must take steps to ensure they operate their vehicles safely to protect themselves, others and business property (e.g., trucks, trailers and cargo).
Drivers must adapt to winter road conditions by taking appropriate actions, such as:
- Staying alert
- Avoiding distractions
- Reducing speed
- Maintaining a safe following distance
- Avoiding cruise control use
- Braking and accelerating with caution
- Not passing snowplows
- Sharing the road
- Properly using the inter-axle differential lock if needed
Additionally, drivers must know how to react to common issues that may arise, including:
- Frozen brakes—The brake lining may freeze to the drum if brakes are set while still wet in cold weather. To fix this, drivers can gently rock the trailer back and forth, cut and resupply the air supply, tap the brake drum with a hammer to break up the ice or let the brakes thaw as it warms. Brake de-icing products may also be available.
- Skidding—If skidding occurs while driving, drivers should remain calm, depress the clutch and steer to get back in line with the trailer. Braking should be avoided.
- Jack-knifing—Drivers should not panic and try to correct the jack-knife by gradually steering until the trailer and tractor are realigned. Brakes should not be used until the driver feels the trailer straightening (some may choose to use the Jake brake at this point). Drivers should then gently feather the accelerator when regaining control to end the skid. Slowly pulling over after a jack-knife can help calm drivers’ nerves.
Inspection and Maintenance
Inspecting and properly maintaining vehicles and trailers is an essential year-round activity but arguably even more critical in winter. Equipment, parts, fluids and other aspects to check include the following:
- The battery, including its age, condition, voltage and connections, should be examined. Its cold cranking amps should also be tested.
- Fifth-wheel lubrication should be adequate, ensuring a winter-grade product is in use.
- The vehicle and trailer’s exterior must be cleared of ice and snow buildup before departing. Couplers, suspensions and the trailer’s structural integrity should also be assessed.
- The heater and defroster should be inspected, as these may not have been used since the previous winter.
- Windshield washer fluid should be measured, and a winter formulation should be used.
- Windshield water nozzles and wiper blades should be checked to make sure they are functional.
- Cargo should be securely fastened and prepared for cold weather before departure.
- Lights, including turn signals, should be operational.
Winter poses unique driving challenges, so it is crucial for drivers to implement measures to stay safe during this season.
For information on trucking insurance, commercial vehicle insurance or to find out how to reduce your insurance costs call CMB at 780.424.2727 or click here to get a quote.