For truck drivers winter means slippery road conditions, snowstorms, strong winds, blizzards, and low temperature. It is the time of year when even experienced drivers feel the extra challenge.

Although most of our drivers are based in Canada and familiar with winter driving conditions, you can never be too prepared. Taking a few extra steps will keep you on the safe track!      

Winter safety includes not only paying more attention to driving habits and staying alert on the road but making sure your truck is winter-ready, as well. All freight companies have a set of instructions and policies and conduct Winter Driving Training for their drivers. 

Prepare your truck for winter in advance

When the temperature hits below 0 C (32F) it puts extra stress on materials. Your truck’s parts and systems are no exception! Getting stuck on the curbside because of a preventable malfunction puts you in jeopardy and is costly.

Before the winter comes make sure the truck went through inspection and all the systems working and the truck is safe to drive. Have the emergency kit onboard: flashlight, a small shovel, warm clothing, blankets, first aid kit, jump cables, and a bright piece of fabric for the emergency signal.   

If parts of the routes require tire chains, learn how to install them and carry the necessary length in your truck. Familiarise yourself with the local laws on chain use. 

In winter before every trip make sure:

• Windshield wipers are clear of ice and are in working condition
• The washer fluid tank is full
• The top of the trailer is clear of snow
• Make sure signal and brake lights are clear of ice and mud buildup and are visible
• Make sure the diesel fuel you use is temperature appropriate.

Starting truck in cold weather

These are must-do steps for starting the truck in cold weather

Inspect the truck and make sure you know your fuel level and its grade, have enough antifreeze, windshield washer fluid enough for the next trip segment 

Diesel fuel for winter conditions

As colder weather is not so common in the USA, most of the states do not carry or stock on winter-grade fuel. When the temperature drops it becomes a problem. At 15F it waxes and turns into a gel. Once it gels, the truck won’t start. It would have to be towed, and the system flushed, filters changed. 

To avoid this situation, use the winter grade of Diesel (the fuel that you buy in Canada). To prevent gelling there should be at least 30% of winter-grade diesel. Of course, if your trip is too long you will have to use company approved additives.

When driving in winter check the temperatures regularly and keep track of your fuel level (concentration). Plan your fuel stops, especially when driving from warmer states towards colder or mountainous areas.

When you plan your fuel always allow for extra. On winter roads because of accidents or closures, you are more likely to get stuck in traffic and your fuel consumption will not be the same.

Diving in winter 

Driving safely is always a rule, but you have to add extra caution in winter! Even a familiar highway becomes treacherous in the colder season.

• Monitor weather events closely via notifications and by observation
• Drive according to the road condition, not the speed posted
• Be aware that traction in snow conditions is reduced
• All the bridges and overpasses tend to freeze or form black ice. Slow down.
• Accelerate, brake, and steer smoothly
• Watch out for the black ice signs. It might develop in sunny weather too
• Be extra careful on uphill/downhill roads
• Avoid center lane
• When visibility is low, be aware of other vehicles on the road
• Do not cross emergency road closure areas 

Driving in mountainous areas – what to watch out for

Most routes our drivers use cross mountainous areas. Driving in mountainous areas requires even more attention. The winding roads, narrow passages, uphill and downhill segments, one-lane roads, and lots of turns! 

In winter sudden drops of temperature, black ice formation, and low visibility are causing extra challenges. It is enough for one truck driver to make a mistake to create hours’ long  backlog.

In addition to weather challenges mountainous and wooded areas are known for deer, elk, and moose frequent sightings. The worst part is that their appearance on the road is always sudden and will wreak serious damage on impact, or if a driver tries to avoid the collision. As much as animals are unpredictable, their appearance is more common towards dusk. 

Drivers frequenting the areas where deer are often seen on the roads often add moose guards bumpers to their trucks and refrain from driving in the evening.       

Winter conditions are challenging, but if you are prepared and follow the safety rules you will be efficient and safe. As a company, XAN-systems Inc strive to provide the drivers with their information and expertise.