Road Warrior Safety: Tips for Winter Travel

Jan 15, 2024

Winter is making its presence known across the country. Areas that typically don’t experience winter weather, like the South, are preparing just in case a winter storm heads their way thanks to this year’s El Nino weather pattern. All of this weather unpredictability can be hard to navigate for truck and delivery drivers. One day you may encounter sunny skies with highs in the 50s. The next day, you’re trying to maintain control on a snow-covered roadway. Our Lee-Smith team wants to ensure you are ready for any winter weather that comes your way. In this blog post, we'll share some practical advice to help truck drivers stay safe and confident on the roads during these frosty months.


Protecting Yourself

Your most important goal when you head out on the road is to get back safely. During the winter months, truck drivers become frontline warriors against the elements. Putting your safety first is crucial. Before you ever hit the road, take time to pack a winter emergency kit to store in your truck. The items in this kit could save your life if you find yourself stuck in a snowstorm. Here is a short list of essentials to include: 


  1. Flashlight with extra batteries
  2. Cell phone charger
  3. Reflective triangles
  4. Water
  5. Non-Perishable Food
  6. Jumper Cables
  7. First Aid Kit
  8. Toilet Paper
  9. Medication
  10. Blankets and winter wear (coat, gloves, hat, scarf)


Communication plays a vital role too. Stay in regular contact with dispatchers or fellow drivers who can provide real-time updates on changing conditions. Keep an eye on the forecast for the areas you will be traveling through. If something concerns you along your route, see if there is an alternate route you can take. However, if you do have to travel through an area that is experiencing winter weather, take extra precautions and drive defensively. Your training and experience are invaluable assets - trust your instincts.


Protecting Your Truck

Now, let’s discuss your truck’s needs. Before you hit the highway, give your trusty truck a thorough winter checkup. Our Service Department can make sure your truck is in working order and ready to take on the elements. Here are six tips to keep your truck operating seamlessly.


Tire Tread Matters

Ensuring your tires have the appropriate tread is crucial. If you anticipate navigating through regions with frequent winter weather, contemplate swapping your regular tires for snow tires and incorporating tire chains. Driving on tires with insufficient tread poses a significant risk, as they lack the necessary friction to navigate slippery surfaces safely. Make this tire adjustment a priority to enhance traction and, ultimately, safeguard yourself against the hazards of winter driving.


Don’t Gel with Gelling

Avoid the inconvenience of fuel gelling by using additives when temperatures drop below freezing. These additives not only prevent gelling but also contribute to your truck’s overall winter performance.


Use a Block Heater

Ensure smoother operation and fuel efficiency by using a block heater to keep your engine warm overnight. Simply turn on the heater once you’ve finished your route for the day. 


Slow & Steady Means Safety

Enhance the safety of your truck and those around you by adopting a slow and steady driving approach. Maintain a substantial distance between your truck and the vehicle ahead – double the following distance recommended on sunny days. This precaution provides crucial reaction time in the event of encountering black ice or losing control on a slippery roadway.


Brake With Care

Avoid the risk of a serious chain-reaction crash by practicing cautious braking. Slamming on the brakes on slippery surfaces can lead to unpredictable consequences. Allow ample time for those behind you to react by applying gradual and controlled braking. 


Skip the Cruise Control

While cruise control is a convenience on clear days, it’s best to skip it when navigating slippery surfaces. Using cruise control in winter conditions may compromise your ability to maintain control of your truck, leading to potential hazards like hydroplaning or jackknifing. 


One Last Word

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it's wise to stay prepared for any unexpected challenges that may arise while driving through snowy conditions. In the event you run into problems with your truck while 



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