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Toll Free: 800-832-7278
Local Phone: 410-685-4474
2723 Annapolis Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21230

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Safe Driving Tips for Inclement Winter Weather

Here are some tips for driving safely in winter weather.

Driving a fleet truck can be challenging in regular road conditions, but winter weather can complicate things much more. Whether you are dealing with ice, high winds, or snow, it can be a huge help to know how to prepare. Here are some tips for driving safely in winter weather.

Safe Speeds

In any condition, the first step to driving safely is to keep an eye on your speed. Generally, inclement weather means that you can go just under the speed limit if need be. I large fleet truck takes much longer to slow down because of its momentum, especially on roads that are slick with ice. Because of this, you should also increase your following distance behind other vehicles to avoid the risk of rear-ending another car if you can’t stop in time.

Staying in Control

Once you lower your speed, it will be much easier to keep your vehicle under control, even in slippery road conditions. It’s important to be aware of your grip on the steering wheel as well. This small detail can make a big difference if you start going out of control. Try not to wrap your thumbs around the steering wheel, because they can get in the way if you need to make a hard turn and you could even injure yourself. Of course, hard turns are for emergencies only; you should turn and brake as gently as possible to prevent skidding.

Emergency Supplies

As a rule, you should always have a certain amount of supplies in your truck to prepare you for emergencies. Especially in winter, you should be prepared in case you get stranded on the side of the road. Some of the supplies you should bring include food and water, a flashlight, jumper cables, and of course, blankets.

Icy Areas

Ice buildup is one of the biggest factors in inclement winter weather on the road. It helps to know which areas are the most icy and dangerous. Those places would include bridges, overpasses, and other elevated ground because it is not salted as often to prevent freezing. Especially after sleet or freezing rain, you should make sure to drive extra careful on these roads. Black ice is deceptive because it blends in with the road, and you won’t know it’s there until you hit it. Driving at a safe speed will prevent skidding and hydroplaning if you run across black ice.

Baltimore Freightliner-Western for all Your Trucking Needs!

Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet to tow trucks or simply interested in the latest trucking technology, you can rely on Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star. We have provided top-notch service for the trucking industry for 30 years and would love to assist you in buying a new top-of-the-line truck, finding the specialty parts you need, or repairing your truck. Give us a call toll-free at 800-832-7278 or locally at 410-685-4474, or contact us online. To find out more about what we are up to, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star is an award-winning, authorized dealer for new and used medium-duty and heavy-duty Freightliner and Western Star trucks and Sprinter Vans. We also provide expert service repair for Detroit Diesel, Cummins, Caterpillar, and Mercedes-Benz engines.
2723 Annapolis Rd
Baltimore
MD
21230
USA