Winter Driving
We stepped into the world of trucking with no winter driving experience whatsoever. It didn’t help that we went through our training in the spring either, so our tires never hit snow. It took nearly a year before there was snow under our feet for our knowledge and skills to get put to the test. We've compiled the most important snow driving tips, along with the photos we took while inching through a blizzard in North Dakota.
Watch the Temperatures
Fluctuating temperatures just above and below freezing lead to roads icing over rapidly, this is the time to turn off your cruise control. Keep your eyes on the temperature gauge so you’ll know when to adjust your speed.
Winter storm, North Dakota, October, 2018
Bridges Freeze First
Due to the cold surrounding areas of bridges, winds will cause them to ice over rapidly. The best practice when passing over a bridge is to let off the gas and let the truck roll until you have crossed over safely.
Snow VS Freezing Rain
Freezing rain will occur when temperatures are near or just below freezing. This is when you should start to be more cautious of your surroundings and fast changing road conditions. Expect ice and snow along your path and decrease your speed.
Don’t Crowd the Plows
Snow plows average below highway speeds (-55 mph) so watch out for those flashing lights and be cautious when passing. Plowing heavily snow covered roads will lead to large amounts of snow being thrown into the surrounding lanes, which can blind you when passing and/or cause you to lose control. Either wait until they finish the section or another lane opens for you to pass freely.
Freshly Plowed Roads
Plowed roads can be a blessing and a curse. Though fresh plowing seems like it will give you a safer roadway, you will hit snow-pack. During the plowing process, they are also compressing the snow below them, leaving behind sheets of ice and snow-pack. Be cautious in these conditions as they can be just as slippery. Fresh powder can bring you better traction but lessen visibility of the roadway and any obstacles they may be hiding.
Driving through Snow
Do not drive through previous tracks from other vehicles. The snow in the tire tracks will be compressed, leading to slippery conditions. It’s always best to stay in the “fresh powder” to maintain traction. Watch for spray behind the tires of passing vehicles, so you can identify if roads have been treated.
Snow Storm in North Dakota, October, 2018 (Vehicle off the shoulder on opposing lanes)
Chain Laws
Be sure to look over your route for any chain laws in effect, especially if you'll be crossing over long mountain streches. Some US highways have permanent chain laws throughtout the winter season, so stay diligent and preplan your route. The general trucker consensus is - if you have to throw chains, it’s probably not worth driving through. *Regardless if chain laws are in effect, chains must be carried throughout winter months in the majority of our western states.
Use De-Icer Windshield Washer
Ice will build up quickly on your windshield during an active snow storm. Make sure to add alcohol to your windshield washer fluid, or keep it simple and buy the de-icer windshield washer fluid in the surrounding winter months to keep you prepared. Always keep an extra bottle on hand also.
Don’t Make Sudden Changes
In icy, slippery, and/or snow covered conditions - you should do everything with ease and patience. Change lanes slowly so you don’t cause your truck to lose traction and slide. Brake lightly, and utilize the stab braking method so you don’t lock up your wheels. Accelerate with ease and let the truck roll when passing other vehicles to help maintain traction. This will help you lessen the chance of a self inflicted spin out.
Police averting traffic from exit ramp spin off, North Dakota, October 2018
Driving with the Public
There are 2 (seemingly popular) means of driving through snow storms, either by maximizing your distance with other vehicles or within a “chain” of other cars/trucks. They both have their pros and cons and neither is right or wrong. Maintaining excessive distance in front and behind you; keeps you away from others, along with their errors and bad judgement. People tend to overcorrect, and can be the reason you end up in a wreck if you're too close or cannot come to a full stop in time to avoid it. On the other hand, driving in a “chain” can be somewhat of a safety barrier, warning you of ice up ahead. This method can also increase your chances of being involved in a pile up. So make sure to keep your following distance regardless of which method you choose. With both choices in mind, remain in the right lane if not passing, turn on your four way flashers if operating below the minimum speed limits, and take it slow. Mother nature will always win if you take her for granted.
Jackknifed tractor-trailer in the median, Interstate 94, North Dakota, October, 2018
Better to be safe, than sorry.
If you are not comfortable driving through any mixture of winter conditions; it’s better to shut it down and let your company know the current road conditions are unsafe. It’s okay to some feel pressure, it comes with the job… but keep in mind, no load is worth your life. You will get there, when you get there.
Remain in Your Vehicle
If you, or another vehicle around you is caught in a wipe out, please REMAIN IN YOUR VEHICLE. If others around you start to lose control, your vehicle will offer you a form of protection. If you see an incident happen, please leave it to the professionals - a quick 911 call will keep everyone safe. Lastly, if road conditions have worsened beyond your comfort or driving abilities, keep driving until you can exit the highway safely. Stopping along the shoulders, especially in inclement weather, can make you an unnecessary road hazard and puts your life in danger.
Tanker slid into the median, Interstate 94, North Dakota, October, 2018
“Keep in mind, no load is worth your life. ”
Please note, information found on this page is for entertainment purposes only. Any action taken upon the methods described and information on this website is strictly at your own risk.