While winter snow may look beautiful in pictures, semi-truck drivers are likely to see it as a hazardous driving condition. Semi-truck drivers face hard deadlines with no leeway for treacherous roadways. The chance of getting in an accident increases by 17–24% on icy freeways. However, there are several things drivers can do to minimize their chances of being involved in semi-truck crashes in the snow.
Winter Driving Tips for Truckers
Even the most experienced semi-truck drivers can be impacted by below-freezing temperatures and low-visibility when caught in the midst of a snowstorm. Reduced traction on icy roads may quickly become a recipe for disaster. However, drivers can lower the risk of a weather-related accident by following a few safety tips.
Reduce Speed
Many accidents can be avoided by reducing your speed during inclement weather conditions. When driving on snow- or ice-covered roads, traction between the tires and pavement is reduced, resulting in longer stop times. Slamming on the brakes or making any sudden movements can quickly lead to tragedy. Slowing down also increases the driver’s reaction time, providing better control in wintery conditions.
Knowing When and Where to Stop
When visibility is low, pulling a semi-truck over on the side of the highway might seem like a safe option, but it’s far from it. Other cars might not recognize that the truck is parked and, instead, assume it’s traveling at the same speed they are. This may lead to cars misgauging the hazard up ahead, causing them to run into the truck or swerve off the road.
Increase Following Distance
Semi-trucks weigh about 30 times more than a passenger car, which means they require a larger cushion for stopping than the average SUV. This cushion must be increased when driving in winter weather conditions. Following summer stopping distance rules in the dead of a winter storm is extremely dangerous and may increase the chances of semi-truck crashes in the snow. By leaving ample space between the vehicles in front of and beside them, semi-truck drivers can reduce the likelihood of losing control and sliding into another vehicle.
Clear Off Lights
Every time you stop, walk around your rig, clearing snow from your headlights and taillights. This simple step will ensure other drivers can see you and you can see them. In addition to brushing snow off your lights, check to make sure all lights are on and that none of the bulbs are out. If you have a dead headlight or taillight, replace the light before returning to the road.
Check Parts
Before you head out on the road, make sure your tire tread is in good condition and that each tire has, and is holding, the right amount of tire pressure. Check antifreeze levels and exhaust systems to ensure the truck is prepared for winter weather conditions. Checking that windshield wipers are working could be the difference between safely moving from point A to point B and being the cause of a truck crash in snow.
Some Semi-Truck Accidents Aren’t Your Fault
Even when drivers follow all of the safety tips, accidents can still happen. Not every semi-truck accident in the snow is the driver’s fault. If you’re a truck driver who has been seriously injured in a truck crash that wasn’t your fault, schedule an immediate consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney. He or she can help you obtain the compensation you are entitled to, including property damages, medical bills, physical therapy, and lost wages.
If you have been injured in a semi-truck accident that wasn’t your fault, contact the attorneys at Ipson Law today to seek the compensation you deserve.
Michael is an attorney who started Ipson Law because of his passion for personal injury law. He graduated with a Juris Doctorate degree from McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento, CA. Learn more about Michael on our about us page, and contact Ipson Law to find out how we can help you.
