AMTA  E-News

January 2010

Occupational Safety Tip - Winter Driving

Driving challenges increase at a chilling pace in winter. Whether you are a seasoned professional transport driver who has clocked thousands of hours on winter roads, or an industry newcomer, there are guidelines to keep in mind that will help you stay safe.

Safe winter driving demands knowledge of defensive driving skills and adjustments. The winter scene will be less hazardous if you keep The Six Primary Hazards of Winter Driving in mind:

1. Poor Traction
To keep your grip, start off slow and easy. Do not spin your wheels. In deep snow, try turning your wheels from side to side to push the snow. Before you turn off the ignition, move your vehicle back and forth 1 to 2 metres (4 -5 feet). This packs the heavy snow for easier starting. When you are pulling out, use a light foot on the accelerator, easing forward gently.

2. Reduced Ability to Stop
It takes 3 to 12 times the distance to stop on ice and snow covered roads than on dry roads. Under winter conditions widen this gap accordingly – the more severe the conditions, the wider the gap.

3. Starting and Stopping
Braking on ice is never easy but as the temperature rises, ice becomes even more slippery. For example, your braking distance can double with a temperature variation from zero to -18° Celsius.

4. Slippery Surfaces
The action of tires spinning and sliding on snow and ice polishes the surface. It happens most often at intersections, on curves and on hills. Slow down early when you approach a slippery intersection, curve or hill. Gearing down may be necessary to slow down safely.

5. Black Ice
Ice sometimes becomes disguised. The road ahead may appear to be black and shiny asphalt. Be suspicious, it may be covered by a thin layer of ice known as black ice. Generally, in the winter, asphalt is a grey-white colour. If you do see a black surface ahead, slow down, and brake smoothly and gently. Proceed with caution.

6. Reduced Ability to See and be Seen
Before starting your trip, clean off the entire windshield and all the windows. Wipe off the headlights, stop and tail lights and turn signals so that others may see you. This may be necessary frequently during a heavy storm. Road splatter can leave you blind. Use your windshield washer often. At night, stop occasionally to clean off the headlights. In fog or heavy snowfall, keep lights on low beam, and adjust your speed accordingly.