Winter does not care about your appointment time. These are the habits experienced drivers swear by.
Before you roll
- Check the forecast and road reports for the whole route, not just where you are.
- Fuel up early. A full tank adds weight and keeps you warm if you get stuck.
- Pack a winter kit: warm clothes, boots, gloves, food, water, flashlight, blankets.
- Check wipers, washer fluid, lights and air lines. Drain air tanks to prevent freezing.
On the road
- Slow down before you need to. Bridges and overpasses freeze first.
- Double your following distance, and then some.
- Avoid sudden moves: braking, steering and acceleration should be smooth.
- Watch your trailer in your mirrors. A light or empty trailer can swing out fast.
- Know the chain laws in each state you cross.
When to shut it down
If you are white-knuckling it, park it. No load is worth your life or your CDL. Tell dispatch early and clearly. A good carrier backs you up. If yours does not, that is worth knowing.
What to ask a carrier
Does the account run through mountain passes in winter? Do you provide chains and training? What is the policy if a driver decides it is unsafe to drive?
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