Truck Maneuvering and Handling
- 1/20Reduce speed on wet roads
Wet road surfaces reduce traction; lowering speed helps prevent hydroplaning and keeps braking under control.
Increase following distance in rain
Heavy trucks require a much longer stopping distance on slippery surfaces, so extra space is essential.
Avoid sudden braking in rain
Abrupt braking in wet conditions can lock wheels and cause jackknifing, so controlled deceleration is safer.
Drive cautiously in strong winds
Crosswinds can shift or tip trailers; reduced speed and careful lane control help maintain stability.
Keep two hands on the wheel in wind
A firm two-hand grip allows better control when sudden gusts try to move the truck off course.
Descend steep grades in lower gear
Engine braking avoids overuse of service brakes, keeping them cool and effective for emergencies.
Reduce speed before entering curves
Slowing before curves keeps the load stable and prevents centrifugal force from tipping the truck.
Watch for black ice in winter
Invisible ice patches can cause loss of control; reduced speed and smooth movements are essential.
Keep lights on in low visibility
Lights help both the driver and other road users see better during fog, rain, or dust conditions.
Avoid cruise control on slippery surfaces
Cruise control may accelerate unexpectedly on wet or icy roads, reducing driver response time.
Maintain safe space on icy bridges
Bridges lose traction faster; extra distance reduces collision risk when traction is suddenly lost.
Reduce speed during dust storms
Poor visibility requires slower speeds to avoid sudden obstacles hidden in the dust.
Pull over safely in zero visibility
Parking with hazard lights in a safe zone avoids collisions when visibility becomes critically low.
Avoid abrupt steering in rain or snow
Gentle steering helps maintain tire grip on wet or snowy roads, preventing a slide or rollover.
Monitor tire pressure before trips
Correct tire pressure ensures full tire contact, increasing grip and reducing skidding risk.
Keep a safe gap downhill
Downhill momentum increases stopping distance, so extra space prevents rear-end collisions.
Watch for wind gusts on open roads
Open flat areas expose trailers to sudden wind; staying alert prevents drifting into other lanes.
Use engine brake in long descents
Prolonged downhill runs can overheat service brakes, so engine braking keeps control intact.
Avoid sudden gear changes on slick roads
Abrupt gear shifts may cause wheel spin, leading to reduced control on wet or icy surfaces.
Check weather before trips
Monitoring forecasts ensures route adjustments, speed changes, and equipment readiness for conditions.