Time to prep for ice, snow, and slippery roads
Being prepared for extreme cold, snow, and ice can make all the difference when it comes to safe winter travel. Well-known tips, like slowing down and understanding how to control a truck on slippery roads, are essential, but there are other, less obvious steps drivers can take, too.
Vehicle readiness
Before drivers even head out onto slippery roads or snowy conditions, they need to make sure their vehicles are ready for anything. Important steps to take include ensuring:
• The heater and defroster are working properly;
• All exhaust system connections are secure (a loose connection could cause carbon monoxide to leak into the vehicle);
• The cooling system is full and there is enough antifreeze (preferably an antifreeze good to -25°F);
• The battery is fully charged and the cables are firmly connected/not corroded;
• All lights are working properly and clear of snow, ice, and dirt; and
• Wiper blades press against the windshield hard enough to wipe it clean, with plenty of cold-weather washer fluid in the reservoir.
TIP: Distribute and review any policies your company may have that address this issue, including inspection policies.
Driving tips
Rapidly changing weather and road conditions pose several challenges during the winter months. The following are a few guidelines drivers should follow when on the road during hazardous winter weather:
• Check on road conditions before beginning the day, and then throughout the day.
• Turn the vehicle’s low beam headlights on to increase visibility.
• Slow down. Speed limits are based on dry pavement and good weather conditions, not adverse winter weather conditions:
– On a wet surface, reduce vehicle speed by at least one-fourth.
– On packed snow, reduce vehicle speed by at least one-half.
– On ice, reduce vehicle speed by at least two-thirds.
• Allow for additional following distance. It takes longer to brake safely on a snow-covered and/or ice-covered road.
• Don’t use cruise control. Even a short tap on the brakes to deactivate the cruise control feature can cause a loss of vehicle control.
• If it’s too dangerous to continue, pull off in a safe area (truck stop, rest stop, etc.) until conditions improve and it’s safe to continue.
Tire chains
In certain areas of the country, tire chains are required on commercial motor vehicles when operating in adverse winter weather conditions. To be prepared, the driver should:
• Carry the proper size and number of chains and extra links in the vehicle;
• Regularly check the chains for broken hooks, worn or broken links, or bent or broken side chains;
• Know how to safely put chains on the tires; and
• Not wait until the last minute to put the chains on the tires. The driver should pull over in a safe and level area, preferably a designated chainup area. The driver should also wear reflective clothing to remain visible to other drivers.
Chains should be snug, but not too tight. They should be regularly checked and re-tightened when needed.
TIP: Tire chain requirements vary from state to state. Review the specific requirements for the state(s) in which your drivers travel.
Snowplow safety
Because they remove snow and apply sand, salt, or other road treatment, snowplows travel at a slower rate of speed than other vehicles. All drivers should maintain a safe following distance of at least 5–6 car lengths behind a snowplow. This will help in avoiding collisions as well as potential vehicle damage from the materials being thrown on the road.
If the driver must pass the snowplow, the driver should do it in a safe and legal passing area that’s clear of snow and ice. Also, drivers should make sure there’s enough clearance to the side, as plows are wider than most vehicles and portions of the plow and blade may not be visible due to blowing snow.
Provided by J.J. Keller & Associates
To view the full monthly newsletter click here: Winter Driving Article – Decmeber 2025
