Winter Driving Advice For HGV Drivers

The winter season brings a brand new range of risks for all drivers, but this is especially true for HGV drivers due to the size, weight and stopping distance of the vehicles they are responsible for.

There are a number of common winter hazards such as snow, ice, fog, heavy rain and reduced daylight that can create difficult driving conditions.

When facing winter conditions, driving can have a huge impact on safety, delays, damage and driver wellbeing. That is why in this article, FleetEx provide practical, real-world advice to help HGV drivers stay safe, prepared and confident during the winter months.

How winter conditions affect HGV driving

In the UK, we all know that it is possible to experience all four seasons in one day, particularly in the winter, which can make all types of driving challenging. For HGV drivers, battling wind, rain, snow, and ice can be a dangerous pursuit.

Many will experience reduced tyre grip on icy or wet roads, especially during braking and cornering. They also need to anticipate longer stopping distances due to the weight of the vehicle and the tricky road conditions.

Reduced visibility caused by fog, snow, rain and spray can also present problems, along with it getting darker much earlier during the winter. The weather inevitably means there is an increased likelihood of road closures, congestion and unpredictable traffic behaviour, which all leads to a greater physical and mental strain on drivers during long, cold shifts.

What to inspect before driving in poor conditions

Knowing the hazards that the weather presents, it is important to inspect an HGV before setting off on a journey. This will ensure that it is roadworthy and in the best possible condition for what it is likely to face out on the road.

Any inspection should start with the tyres to ensure there is the correct tread depth and pressure. Worn or under-inflated tyres can be especially dangerous in winter, so drivers need to make sure they check for visible damage or uneven wear.

It is also sensible to check that all lights are clean, working and bright, including the brake lights, indicators and fog lights. Drivers need to make sure they are cleaning their lenses and mirrors regularly due to road spray and salt allowing full visibility around the vehicle.

When faced with rain and snow, your wipers can be a lifesaver, so make sure wiper blades are in good condition to prevent smearing. HGV drivers should also be using winter-grade screen wash to prevent freezing and should clear any snow or ice fully before driving the vehicle.

Responsive brakes are critical in slippery conditions, so these also need to be checked. Drivers should carry out a quick walk-around looking for loose parts, ice build-up or damage, and should ensure that any fault is reported as early as possible instead of pushing on no matter what deadlines they might be facing.

What to carry in your truck during winter

All drivers need to be prepared for changing weather conditions, so ensure that there is de-icer and an ice scraper on board for windscreens and mirrors. You will also need warm clothing, gloves, blankets or spare layers for getting out of the truck or in case you become stranded. A torch or headlamp is useful for low-light inspections, and a phone charger or power bank will be essential in the case of delays or breakdowns.

HGV drivers should ensure they have water, snacks and basic supplies with them in case they get stuck, and high-visibility clothing and a warning triangle will help to enhance safety.

Safe driving tactics for winter conditions

It is not just the condition of the truck that is important during the winter, but also how it is driven. It is especially important to plan ahead when the weather is bad, so make sure you are checking weather forecasts and traffic updates before setting off, as you may need to allow extra time for journeys and breaks. You may also need to consider alternative routes if snow or flooding could become a problem.

When driving, reducing your speed well below normal limits is important if conditions demand it. You should also try and use higher gears to avoid wheel spin when pulling away and avoid harsh acceleration, braking and steering in order to have the best control of the vehicle.

The distance between an HGV and other vehicles on the road will also need to change during the winter as the following distance should be increased significantly. It is essential that drivers stay aware and alert at all times, to be able to spot black ice on bridges, shaded areas or slip roads. You will also need to be on the lookout for other road users making sudden or unsafe moves.

Hills, corners and junctions can present new problems in winter weather, so make sure that you take hills slowly and maintain a steady momentum. Drivers will also need to start braking before corners, not during them and use extra caution at junctions and roundabouts.

Managing delays, stress and fatigue

The weather can present HGV drivers with many headaches, and this can lead to added stress and fatigue, which will then impact on overall wellbeing. It is important to accept that delays are likely to be a part of winter driving and avoid feeling pressure to rush or make up time in potentially dangerous situations.

Drivers also need to understand the importance of rest, hydration and staying warm to ensure they are driving safely. There will also come a point where conditions might be too dangerous to continue, and drivers need to be aware of this and be prepared to stop.

Winter driving is about preparation, patience and awareness with small checks and adjustments making huge differences to safety. HGV drivers need to ensure that they prioritise safety over speed or schedules. A driver who is confident and well-prepared will be better equipped to handle winter conditions and ensure everyone gets where they are going safely.