Winter is one of the busiest seasons for a towing company, and if you’re a truck driver, it can be one of your busiest seasons, too. If you drive a semi, you know that an accident could lead to widespread injuries, angry clients, ruined loads, or being stuck until you find a towing company. Below are some tips to stay safe this winter.

How to Drive Safely In Winter if You’re a Truck Driver

1. Plan Trip Segments

Plan out segments of your trip, and track down companies in relevant areas that offer heavy truck towing before you head out. Write down the information for each towing company and keep it in your glove box. This will save you time trying to search for one if you break down, and it will give you an idea of where the closest one is if something does happen.

2. Be Prepared 

Wear warm clothes, and keep spare ones in your rig, including a heavy coat. Have a first-aid and emergency kit with you at all times, with items like ice scrapers, a flashlight, road flares, non-perishable food, bottled water, sand or litter, a shovel, and blankets, in case you have to wait for towing services. Stay rested by getting regular sleep on long journeys so that you remain alert.

3. Maintain Your Rig

Complete a pre-trip inspection of the truck’s tires, fluids, lights, heating system, and wipers before each trip. Check your tire tread regularly to make sure wear is even and that the tread isn’t bald or smooth, which both increase the risk of losing control. Have it serviced before winter so that any potential problems are detected. If you encounter a problem on a trip, schedule auto repairs right away instead of continuing to drive your truck, which could lead to sudden breakdowns or dangerous situations.

4. Watch for Hazardous Conditions

Near-freezing temps mean black ice, which can be transparent and look like a damp spot in the road, but it can make you lose control of your rig. Bridges and overpasses freeze first because they’re often not treated and don’t have a buffer on any side to slow the loss of heat.

Mountainous routes are narrow, curvy, and prone to unpredictable weather patterns, like snow and ice. Be on the lookout for high winds, impending snowstorms, and emergency vehicles and snowplows that may struggle to get around you. Slow your speed when approaching any hazardous areas, and try to avoid spots like these where possible.

If you end up needing a tow near Monroe County, WI, Tomah Wreck & Repair, LLC is the towing company you can count on. For over 50 years, they’ve served the area with towing and repair services, including 24/7 towing and roadside assistance. They operate within a 60-mile radius of Tomah, with long-distance towing available. Learn more about their heavy towing services online, and call (608) 372-2550 for fast assistance.