Make sure you know these safety tips for truck driving in spring showers.
While truckers are happy that winter storms are coming to an end, the weather hazards are not over just yet. Spring is known to bring heavy rainstorms, which can be just as dangerous as driving in the snow. Wet conditions are very dangerous and should be taken seriously by every trucker, as accidents due to rain and slippery roads frequently happen each year. Continue reading for some safety tips all drivers should know for upcoming spring showers.
Drive Slowly
When driving in the rain, safety should take priority over everything else. This means that even if you’re afraid of getting behind schedule on your haul, you should slow down to a safe speed, especially when other cars are close by. Hydroplaning is a huge safety risk during a storm, and even as little as 1/12 inch of water on the road can be a danger to your truck. It’s crucial to keep in mind that it’s always to be better safe than sorry, as driving too fast in the rain can lead to horrible circumstances.
Don’t Drive Too Close
As a professional truck driver, you have a lot of experience with driving in wet conditions, but you shouldn’t assume that others on the road have the same amount of experience. Unfortunately, many drivers do not know how to drive in bad conditions safely, and can be great risks to others around them. It is in your best interest to leave a lot of space between your truck and drivers around you, to ensure that you have enough time to react to any situation. Trucks will also need more time to slow down in wet conditions, so keeping a safe distance allows you to stop or make a turn safely.
What To Do If You Skid
Even truckers who take all the necessary steps to stay safe may experience a skidding in the rain. If this happens to your truck, knowing how to handle the skid is crucial. First, it’s important to do your best not to panic, as professional drivers know that panicking is the worst thing you can do in a driving situation. Instead, keep your eyes on the direction that you want the truck to go, without slamming on the breaks. If you steer in the direction that you want the truck to go, you will have an easier time controlling the truck.
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