High winds, chilly temperatures, and powerful storms are shared throughout this season. There are things truckers need to be aware of that may assist in keeping them safe when operating semis in this sort of weather.
Why Is It So Dangerous To Drive A Semi In High Winds?
Heavy winds may not immediately spring to mind when considering the weather conditions that pose the greatest hazard to a semi-truck. Most people would assume rain, slick roads, or snow are the greatest danger. The riskiest driving conditions throughout the winter, nevertheless, may be strong winds. This is because their immense size and height have a particularly powerful impact on semi-trucks due to their immense size and height. Furthermore, unlike other winter truck driving circumstances, the wind is not always visible, so you cannot always plan for it.
We will list seven precautions you may take while operating a truck in strong winds.
Tip #1: Take It Slow
This general rule of thumb is excellent for truck driving in inclement weather, including wind, ice, and everything in between. It is advised to reduce your speed by roughly 20 mph or at the most comfortable pace. Trust your instincts if you think you should only be traveling at 25 mph since they are often correct.
Tip #2: Recognize When To Pull Over.
There are instances when driving on the road is not safe. Simply stop and wait for the winds to pass, either on the side of the road or in a nearby parking lot. It may be tempting to push through the weather, but it is essential to exercise caution.
Tip #3: Look at the weather forecast.
It is crucial to verify the weather prediction before leaving for the trip. Being mindful of how quickly the winds are moving is crucial to being safe when truck driving in severe weather, regardless of how short or long a journey is in front of you. (For comparison, winds of 60 mph or greater are regarded as excessively hazardous.) It is advisable to wait it out if the winds are too strong. Additionally, certain dispatchers may require that you leave at a specific hour. If you are aware of your limitations, we advise you to politely explain your predicament and wait out the weather.
Tip #4: Recognize That Empty Freight Is More Dangerous
Driving a truck in severe weather is challenging enough when carrying a lot of stuff, but empty freight ups the ante. Unfortunately, the threat of the truck rolling over is one of the major dangers while operating a semi in strong winds. The semi will be significantly more vulnerable to it when the cargo compartment in the upper half of the truck is empty. If you anticipate traveling on empty, make additional preparations to account for that.
To excel in commercial truck driving, one must possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and training. Truck Driver Academy covers all the basics, from instructing our drivers on how to drive in certain weather situations to assist them in finding jobs. Call Truck Driver Academy when you are ready to begin your truck driving career!