The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year. As people travel to greet family, the roads become congested with traffic. Additionally, the winter weather can dump heavy snow on the road, causing accidents and traffic delays. In conditions like these, it’s important for both truck drivers and the people around them to drive carefully and practice truck safety. Below are a few tips to ensure you remain safe on the road this holiday season. 

How to Practice Truck Safety This Holiday Season

1. Be Aware of Blind Spots

Trucks have large blind spots, including directly in front of the vehicle, directly behind, close to the left side of the truck, and almost anywhere on the right. Truck drivers should be aware of these blind spots and give drivers in those areas plenty of warning before changing lanes or turning. Drivers should avoid those spots, if possible, when approaching a truck. 

2. Slow Down

The posted speed limits are chosen with optimal weather in mind. In wet or frozen weather, both truck drivers and other vehicle operators need to drive slower for safety. A good rule of thumb is to drive half the posted speed or less on snowy and icy roads.

3. Maintain Distance

If your stopping distance is longer than it would be in good weather, stay further back from other vehicles and don’t cut in front of other drivers. Make sure to give yourself enough distance from other drivers to avoid unwanted collisions. 

4. Watch Out for Impaired Drivers

If you are on the road late at night, make sure to pay close attention to the road and changing weather conditions, as severe weather could impair other drivers. Keep an eye out for cars that are weaving or behaving unpredictably and erratically. 

5. Plan Ahead

Both truckers and other drivers should be prepared before starting a long drive. Get plenty of rest the night before and leave early the following day to avoid rushing your trip. Additionally, pack an emergency kit—include batteries, a flashlight, a blanket, and extra snacks—in case your vehicle becomes stuck due to harsh weather conditions. 

For more truck driver training, enroll at Professional Driver Institute Incorporated in Churchville, NY. Serving Monroe County since 1993, this accelerated trucking school offers truck safety and certification programs in just one month, as well as job placement upon completion. To get started, call (585) 293-1203 or visit their website to see a list of their programs.