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Winter Truck Driving Tips

Oct. 15 2021 Seasonal By DeBary Truck Sales

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Trucking is a 365-day a year job, so while some folks can slow down in the winter, you and your truck just barrel through it. But with poor visibility, slick roads, and less daylight, winter driving can be particularly challenging. And while us Floridians are not accustomed to getting much snow, long-haul truckers are bound to encounter it if they drive north or into the Midwest, and it’s important to know how to drive in snowy and icy conditions safely.

We here at DeBary Truck Sales want to make sure your haul—and you—get to your destination safely, so we’ve put together some tips for driving trucks in the winter. If you have any questions, or you’d like to see the trucks we have for sale, contact our Sanford, FL, location today!

Winter Gear

You and your truck need the right materials to handle winter weather safely. Ask truckers on your usual routes for more specific information, but in general you’ll want:

  • Winter wiper blades, which are sturdier and bigger and designed to prevent ice accumulation.
  • Winter-specific fluids, from windshield wiper fluid to motor oil and more, which will be less likely to freeze or separate in low temperatures.
  • Fuel treatments like a stabilizer can fall under that last tip, but it’s worth mentioning again.
  • Jumper cables to jump-start cold batteries, either for your truck or a fellow driver.
  • Windshield scrapers and snow brushes to clear built-up ice on your truck before you ever start the engine.
  • Extra blankets and clothes in case you want to layer up rather than blast the heat, which can save you gas.

Tire Gear

Worth its own category is the gear you’ll want for your tires. First, make sure you’re diligently checking tire pressure and tread levels. Traction is low enough in winter without poor tire maintenance! There are also winter-specific tires you can invest in, but fully replacing your tires can be expensive. Instead, try:

  • Chains and cables that go on your tires to ensure traction in thick snow or ice, or which you can lay down in front of your tires to help you get out of a rut.
  • Cat litter, which is a clean and compact way to get a bit of extra traction if you get stuck. Get a resealable bottle rather than a bag to avoid spills!

Regular Maintenance

Missing maintenance checks or oil changes is bad enough in perfect weather. In winter, it can be the difference between close calls and a crash. Inspect your rig daily to look for dirt buildup or obvious damage. The sooner you find issues, the sooner you can fix them and stay safe.

Most importantly, when in doubt, pull over and wait the weather out a bit. Your schedule may be important, but it’s not as important as your health and safety! For more tips and information, contact us at DeBary Truck Sales here in Sanford, Florida. We proudly serve the people of Atlanta, Georgia—let us serve you today!