Winter Trip Planning and Time Management
It is NTB’s busiest time of year and unfavorable winter driving conditions have already begun—two things that unfortunately happen at the same time. Busy is obviously good as drivers have an opportunity for increased earnings, but winter can hinder your those efforts and make everything more difficult for drivers.
For some this will be their first winter driving a tractor trailer. Your driving skills will be tested as the weather changes. Snow, freezing rain, ice, and high winds will challenge your abilities and your nerves. Keep in mind that your safety and the safety of others around you is your first priority.
Trip planning and time management are always important, but they become even more critical when the weather turns bad. Allow extra time for trips—is the route you are taking the best for the weather conditions? Keep apprised of changing weather conditions and drive accordingly.
Speed and space management are the keys to safe driving at all times, but become more critical during extreme weather conditions. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance. Can you stop safely should an emergency situation arise? Slow and steady will get you to your destination safely.
Safety is your first priority!