Blog Layout

3 Safety Tips for Truck Drivers During the Winter

Feb 06, 2020
Blue Container Truck — Camp Douglas, WI — C. L. Chase 24 Hour Towing & Recovery

Heavy-duty and commercial truck drivers are busy year-round. During the winter, snow flurries and icy pavement can compromise your ability to reach your destination safely. With a few driving strategies, you can avoid accidents and a need for towing. Here are a few tips to stay safe under inclement weather.

How to Drive a Heavy-Duty Vehicle in the Winter

1. Slow Down

Staying within the speed limit is always important, but that’s especially true during the winter, when tires could slide on wet roads. This can happen when your speed exceeds 50 miles per hour.

By driving slower, the rubber will make full contact with the ground. As it could take longer to brake on icy pavement, driving slowly will help you stop at intersections. It also increases response time so you don’t hit vehicles you’re trailing.

2. Avoid Sudden Movements

In addition to slowing to a stop, remember to gently press on the gas when it’s time to move. Slamming on the pedal reduces traction, making it harder to maintain control. The same is true when you turn corners too quickly and brake suddenly. If you see an obstacle close ahead, slow down and maneuver around it instead of braking, which might require more distance.

Hands On A Steering Wheel — Camp Douglas, WI — C. L. Chase 24 Hour Towing & Recovery

3. Leave a Wide Berth

Vehicle crowding on winter roads often leads to accidents and the need for towing. To avoid collisions if the driver in front of you slows suddenly, increase your following distance to at least eight seconds. This means you should pass a landmark eight seconds after the vehicle in front of you.

 

If you do find yourself in need of towing this winter, trust the experienced, certified technicians at C. L. Chase 24 Hour Towing & Recovery in Camp Douglas, WI. Serving heavy-duty truckers in Wisconsin Rapids as well as Jackson, Adams, Vernon, La Crosse, Eau Claire, and Chippewa counties for over 50 years, the team has provided prompt recovery services and expert repairs. For towing, call (608) 427-6734. To learn more about the types of vehicles they service, visit them online.

17 Mar, 2020
Commercial truck drivers who frequently travel long distances appreciate smooth rides. However, there are times when mechanical issues cause complications and call for semi repairs . Overheating is one of the most common problems with heavy-duty vehicles . To help you decide what to do in this situation, here are a few common causes of overheating and how they’re corrected.
29 Jan, 2020
Vehicle breakdowns are never pleasant, but are especially problematic for semi-truck drivers with time-sensitive deliveries and pickups. Some breakdowns cannot be predicted, and towing companies will help with recovery and repairs. However, you can typically avoid malfunctions with proper maintenance. Here are a few ways to avoid issues on the road.
20 Dec, 2019
With winter on its way, Wisconsin drivers should be prepared for slippery roads and deep snow. When the weather is particularly inclement, you may find yourself in need of a winch-out from a reliable towing company. If you are not familiar with this service, the guide below will help you seek assistance if you run into issues this season.
20 Nov, 2019
If you like to save money by repairing your own car, finding the right replacement parts is vital. Whether it’s a component for a manual transmission or a door mirror, a salvage yard is a fantastic place to start. A visit can see you coming back with a lot of wonderful finds and some major savings. To get the most out of your trip, it is essential to know how to prepare beforehand.
11 Nov, 2019
The holiday season is just around the corner, and that means the roads will soon be packed with travelers. If you’re planning on heading out for a holiday road trip over the next couple of months, avoid calling for towing service by properly preparing and keeping some safety precautions in mind. By following these tips, you and yours will get to your destination safe and sound and in good holiday spirits.
03 Oct, 2019
As the transition from summer to fall begins, conditions on the road change as well. Whether you’re taking a well-earned vacation, visiting your child at school, or heading to a family member’s house for thanksgiving, following some safe driving measures can help you get there. The guide below shares three ways to stay safe on autumn roadways so you don’t need emergency road service .
05 Sep, 2019
If something happens to your vehicle that necessitates the help of a towing service, you’ll avoid additional stress by making sure your child doesn’t get bored while waiting. After all, waiting is hard enough when you’re an adult. Provide a sense of calm for both of you by keeping the below tips in mind for passing the time.
29 Aug, 2019
For most people, car trouble is an unavoidable experience of vehicle ownership. Fortunately, towing services are available for these occasions. While most people think to call for a tow truck if there’s been a collision, many don’t realize they can help in other instances. Here are three non-emergency situations when a towing company can help you.
06 Aug, 2019
Your car’s engine is hot, which is why a working coolant system is so necessary to keep your vehicle running and to avoid needing emergency road service . It can be tempting to ignore temperature gauges, but doing so can cause catastrophic internal damage. Here’s what you should know about this issue.
Share by: