Drive safely this winter: Expert tips for commercial drivers

Winter’s icy grip and unpredictable storms can wreak havoc on South Africa’s roads.

“It is essential that we keep truck drivers and other road users safe even in the most extreme weather conditions,” said Waldemar Christensen, the managing director of Volvo Trucks South Africa. “Fleet owners need to prepare their vehicles and drivers to safely navigate through the ice and freezing temperatures. Prioritising safety and preparedness are key during the winter driving season.”

Volvo Trucks is here to help you navigate the season safely with these essential tips:

• Pre-winter prep: Regular maintenance is imperative. Ensure your battery, coolant, tyres, brakes, lights and wipers are in top condition before winter arrives.
• Slow down: Adjust your speed to match the conditions. Reduced traction on icy roads means increased stopping distances.
• Tyre check: Proper tyre pressure and tread depth are crucial for winter driving. Consider winter tyres for optimal grip.
• See and be seen: Reduced visibility is common in winter. Keep headlights on and use features like fog lights (if available) to improve visibility for yourself and others.
• Increase the following distance: Allow extra space between your truck and the vehicle in front. Stopping distances double on wet roads, and unpredictable behaviour from other drivers is more likely.
• Be prepared for delays: Pack extra food, water, blankets and a charged phone in case of unexpected road closures or delays.

Volvo Trucks – engineered for safety

Volvo Trucks are renowned for their safety features, many specifically designed for harsh winter conditions, including:

Volvo’s dynamic steering: Improves manoeuvrability and control, especially on slippery roads, by reducing steering effort and enhancing stability.

• Driver alert support: Combats driver fatigue by detecting drowsiness and prompting drivers to take breaks. Ensure adequate rest even if your truck lacks this feature, as winter driving is demanding.
• Automatic stretch brake: Prevents jackknifing by applying braking pulses to the trailer, maintaining control when driving downhill on slippery surfaces.
• Stability assist and electronic stability control: Work together to detect and prevent skids and rollovers by automatically countersteering or applying individual wheel brakes.
• Collision warning with emergency brake: Alerts drivers to potential collisions with vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians, and automatically brakes to avoid them if necessary.
• Volvo I-Shift with Crawler Gears: Provides exceptional low-speed control for smooth starts and manoeuvring on icy roads or inclines.

“By following these tips and utilising Volvo’s safety features, you can navigate winter’s challenges with confidence,” said Christensen. Remember, no load is worth risking your life. Stay safe this winter!”

Source: Tanje Wandrag