Heavy snow and ice can be a truck drover’s number one enemy, especially in Calgary, where the winters can be harsh. It can create the worst highway condition making it a difficult challenge for truck drivers. Here are the challenges that truck drivers face during winter.
Visibility
Accuweather reports that Calgarians should expect colder than usual winter as the La Nina weather pattern in the Pacific Ocean worsens. Heavy snowing can turn visibility into zero. With very low visibility, truckers have no other options than to stop.
Icy Roads
Sometimes truckers get lucky when visibility turns normal, but the next thing they face is icy roads. Navigating over steep inclines and declines on icy roads is like wrestling with death. The best thing truck drivers can do at this point is to ensure they always have quality tires and proper engine maintenance. The good thing is diesel engine repair in Calgary is readily available.
Clogged Fuel Filters
The most common issue truckers experience during cold weather is frozen diesel filters. The diesel turns into a gel when it gets freezing outside. If you suspect something wrong with your engine, do not risk it- have it checked with diesel repair experts in Calgary. If something is wrong, the professionals will perform a diesel engine repair and ensure that your truck is ready to go.
Accidents
Due to slippery roads during winter, truckers are prone to accidents. If not their truck, they may become collateral damage to others’ misfortunes. What’s more, accidents may be caused by the traffic clusters by the bad weather. Some drivers may get impatient, and others may drive too close to other vehicles, increasing the chances of accidents.
Passing Snowplows
Transport authorities advise truckers not to pass nor tailgate snow plows as it can be dangerous for them. This is because snowplows kick up a great deal of snow, causing zero visibility.
Getting Stuck on the Highway
You get stuck on the highway for two reasons: you are stuck due to slow-moving traffic, or you stop because of zero visibility.
Tips for Driving in Winter
If you have been driving in snow year in and year out, we salute you. You must have mastered the skills of navigating snow-covered, icy roads and extreme weather conditions. You know that skillful maneuvering and skid control are essential in this kind of highway scenario.
Implementing proper preventive measures and safety skills separates the skilled professional truck driver from the rest. Nevertheless, if you are still in the process of learning the ropes on the snowy road, here are some of the helpful tips that we can give.
Exercise Patience
Having patience will keep you away from danger and accidents. Stop during near-zero visibility and slow down on icy roads. It is better to wait than get into an accident.
Keep Your Distance
Maintaining a reasonable distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front and beside your truck assures your safety.
Self-Confidence
If you think you don’t have the confidence to drive in freezing weather, do not push it. Have an expert drive your truck and accompany him. You might learn something from experienced drivers.
Keep Your Truck in Top Shape
Before you travel, make it a habit to check everything. Do not shrug off minor issues; contact a truck repair shop and check everything before hitting the road.
Conclusion
It is challenging for truck drivers to do their job during the winter season. But if you have the experience and have mastered driving in winter, driving can be smooth sailing. Always make safety your number one priority and prepare in advance for your journey.
