Caring for Your Commercial Truck During a Winter Haul

Trucking is a 365 days a-year kind of job, but winter makes everything more complicated. As pretty as snow and ice are, the road is most dangerous when it’s frozen. To help keep your commercial trucks on the road and ward off accidents, Palmer Trucks has created this winter weather guide.

Essential Materials

The first step in keeping your commercial truck safe in winter is to have the right tools and supplies. In addition to your standard gear, you should take these during winter hauls.

Winter wiper blades are bigger and sturdier blades for heavy snow and rain. They also help prevent ice accumulation.

Any liquid from washer fluid to engine oil can freeze up, so find substitutes with low freezing points so nothing has a chance to solidify.  That applies to your fuel as well and you should also treat it with special chemicals to avoid fuel gelling. 

Even if you don’t get a dead battery, someone else might. By carrying jumper cables, you’re not just looking out for yourself, you’re looking out for your fellow truckers.

Windshield scrapers and snow brushes can help you clear ice and snow much faster.

Finally, bring extra blankets and clothes. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your rig. 

Keep in mind this is just a basic list, so feel free to ask around at stops to see if more experienced truckers have recommendations. 

Switch Your Tires

Most commercial truck accidents occur due to tire failure. The challenges of maintaining traction over snow and ice just add to your risk. Though replacing your normal tires with winter tires might be a bit expensive, it’s worth it to avoid an accident. Make sure to have chains and cables on hand if even more traction is needed.

You can reduce the risk of accidents any time of year by establishing a tire maintenance routine.  Check your tire pressure, especially in winter when cold weather can make them contract, and occasionally check your treads to make sure they aren’t getting worn down. 

When in Doubt, Pull Over

Pull over if you are not confident that you can complete your haul safely. No deadline is worth risking a life, whether it’s yours or someone else’s. Book an overnight stay if necessary, but do not continue until it’s safe. 

Winter trucking can be risky, but with the right equipment and smart planning, you can keep hauling all year round. For more information, visit Palmer Trucks. We operate fifteen locations across Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Illinois. Take advantage of our parts and service discounts to save during winter weather!