As we anticipate another winter season, it’s essential to reflect on knowledge we have gained from year’s past to ensure safe, efficient operations when icy roads and heavy snowfall return. Here are key takeaways to guide drivers and dispatch teams as they prepare for winter driving conditions.
- Identify Trouble Spots in Advance
- Last winter, certain routes proved more challenging than others due to frequent snow buildup or ice patches. Reviewing these routes now can help drivers anticipate where extra caution will be needed and avoid areas likely to pose safety risks.
- Adjust Schedules and Routes
- Winter conditions can significantly impact travel time. Adjust routes and schedules proactively to account for weather delays, allowing drivers extra time to reach each destination safely.
- Ensure Drivers Have Appropriate Winter Gear
- Equip drivers with weather-appropriate clothing, including gloves, hats, and insulated outerwear. Road closures and traffic incidents during winter often require patience and may leave drivers stranded temporarily, so staying warm is crucial.
- Plan for Safe Pull-Offs
- When the weather affects visibility or traction, drivers should know to pull off the road in a safe location before calling dispatch for new routing instructions. This simple step prevents accidents caused by sudden stops on slippery surfaces.
- Equip Dispatch Teams with Reliable Information
- At the terminal, dispatchers should have immediate access to National Weather Service updates, state Department of Transportation (DOT) road closure information, and emergency alerts. Open, continuous communication between dispatch and drivers is key to staying ahead of unexpected weather-related issues.
- Give Snowplows Room to Work
- Snowplow drivers are critical for keeping roads passable, so remind your drivers to maintain a safe distance behind them. Allowing plows to clear the road fully is worth the short wait, preventing accidents and improving traction for everyone on the road.
- Reinforce Winter Safety in Team Meetings
- Winter driving skills can quickly become rusty over warmer months. Revisit winter safety in your next team meeting to review best practices, including slowing down, avoiding abrupt stops, and navigating icy spots. It’s also helpful to have veteran drivers practice installing and removing tire chains to keep this skill fresh.
- Use Technology to Stay Informed
- Companies that use safety apps like PrePass gain a significant advantage during winter. With real-time alerts on road conditions, chain-up requirements, and available truck parking, these tools help drivers make informed decisions, enhancing their safety on the road.
Winter brings unique challenges, but preparation and awareness can make a big difference. By reflecting on past lessons and preparing now, your team can navigate winter’s worst with confidence.