Skids and slides are a serious risk for truck drivers, especially as seasons shift and road conditions change. Knowing common causes of skids and slides and how to adjust your driving approach throughout the year is key to staying safe and preventing accidents.
Top Causes of Skids and Slides:
We’ll go into more detail by season down below, but here are the top causes:
- Excessive speed for conditions – Driving too fast on wet, icy, or uneven roads.
- Over-braking – Especially on curves or downhill grades; this can lock up wheels.
- Sudden turns or lane changes – Sharp movements can throw a trailer off balance.
- Improperly loaded or overweight trailers – Uneven or heavy loads reduce traction and increase slide risk.
- Worn tires or poor maintenance – Tires without tread can’t grip the road. Be sure to check your brakes and tires before getting on the road.
Knowing these risk factors helps drivers stay alert and adjust before a skid or slide ever happens.
Spring Road Hazards: Wet Roads & Sudden Showers
As temperatures rise and rain becomes frequent, spring brings slick roads, potholes, and leftover salt from winter – all of which can compromise traction. To make sure you’re staying safe, follow these Spring Truck Driving Safety Tips:
- Slow down during heavy rain and on wet roads
- Avoid sharp turns or hard braking in wet conditions
- Check tires and brakes for wear after winter
Summer Driving Conditions: Heat, Blowouts & Slick Surfaces
Summer heat can be just as dangerous – hot asphalt, tire blowouts, and sudden downpours all increase the risk of losing traction. Be prepared with these Summer Safe Driving Tips:
- Monitor tire pressure to prevent blowouts
- Watch for slippery roads after rain when oil rises to the surface
- Avoid overloading, which reduces traction and braking power
Fall Road Challenges: Leaves, Fog & First Frosts
Fall introduces hidden skid hazards like leaf-covered roads, fog, and early morning frost. Stay in control by following these Fall Driving Tips for Truck Drivers:
- Slow down on wet or leaf-covered pavement
- Increase your following distance in fog or low visibility
- Be cautious of black ice on bridges and shaded curves
Winter Trucking: Ice, Snow & Reduced Traction
Ice, snow, and freezing rain make winter the most hazardous time for truck drivers. Preparation and patience are key. Keep these Winter Driving Safety Tips For Truck Drivers in mind:
- Drive slowly on icy roads and hills
- Accelerate and brake gently to maintain control
- Leave extra space to stop safely in poor conditions
What to Do If Your Tractor-Trailer Starts to Slide
Even with the best precautions, a skid or slide can still happen. Here’s how to regain control:
- Stay calm and don’t slam on the brakes – sudden braking can make the skid worse.
- Steer into the skid – If the tractor-trailer begins to jackknife, gently steer in the direction you want the front of the tractor-trailer to go.
- Ease off the accelerator – Let traction return gradually. Ideally, the truck should slow down by itself without braking, unless you are going downhill. If you have to brake, do it lightly to avoid worsening.
- Avoid overcorrecting – Sharp movements can cause a spin-out or rollover. Keep movements smooth and deliberate.