Spring Truck Driving Safety Tips
Although spring weather is typically less dangerous than winter, there are still hazards that can occur. It’s important to pay attention to the weather and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Here are some driving safety tips to remember this spring:
- Conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection of your vehicle. Pay careful attention to tires, brakes, turn signals and windshield wipers. Remove all moisture from windows and mirrors before operating your vehicle. Ensure that you have sufficient fuel for your entire run.
- Winter is not over yet! Temperatures can change significantly from hour-to-hour and day-to-day. Rain can quickly change to snow, and water can become black ice or ice, especially in shaded areas, on bridges, and on overpasses. Monitor weather forecasts before the start of, and during, the work day.
- Never drive faster than conditions allow and reduce your speed whenever possible to increase your traction, particularly in rain and fog. Maintain a safe following distance behind the traffic ahead of you, particularly during bad weather. Brake gently to avoid sliding, skidding, and hydroplaning. Do not slam on the brakes.
- Slow down in windy conditions. Windstorms and gusts of wind are particularly common in the springtime. Tractor trailers are particularly difficult to control in extremely windy conditions so it is important to slow down your vehicle as much as possible, or pull your vehicle over to the side if the wind becomes too much.
- Prepare for the rainy spring weather. Wet roads can become slippery and reduce a vehicle’s handling, increasing the distance it takes to stop. The splashing water from puddles can affect your brakes, cause your truck to swerve, and impair the vision of other motorists. Large puddles and flooding can also limit your tire traction, which may cause your vehicle to hydroplane.
- Watch out for potholes. Springtime is when potholes become a serious road hazard. Between plowing, salting, harsh weather, and fluctuations in temperature, potholes can grow pretty large. The best you can do is to avoid them at all costs until they are fixed.
- Keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists. Pedestrians and cyclists may be less alert to traffic in the rain and fog, and more difficult for you to see.
- Animals are becoming more active. Animals are more active in the spring than in winter. While some animals may be coming out of hibernation, others are entering mating season. With both small and large animals coming out of hiding from winter’s harsh weather, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings.
- Dress appropriately for spring weather. Be sure to dress in layers to prepare against drop in temperature, rain and windstorms. Water-proof boots with non-slip soles help in wet and slippery conditions.
Follow these spring truck driving tips to help keep you driving safely all season long. And remember, you are a moving billboard when you drive for a company! Please remain courteous and professional at all times.