Navigating adverse driving conditions presents a significant challenge for all drivers, especially critical for truckers. Accidents involving 18-wheelers are more likely to be fatal compared to smaller vehicles.

Professional drivers must adhere to DOT regulations regarding adverse driving conditions, which dictate how hours of operation are managed under these circumstances.

Let's explore driving in adverse conditions and strategies for handling these potentially hazardous situations.

What’s an Adverse Driving Condition?

Defining "adverse conditions" is straightforward for most people—it includes environments like heavy wind, rain, snow, and other severe weather. Additionally, hazardous road conditions such as icy roads or uncleared debris can increase accident risks.

However, for FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), the definition of adverse weather conditions is strict and not left to individual driver discretion. Fleet managers and drivers must adhere to specific criteria when considering applying for an adverse driving conditions exemption.

What’s an Adverse Driving Condition According to FMCSA?

The FMCSA categorizes adverse driving conditions into various categories. These include problematic weather conditions such as fog, snow, sleet, and icy roads. As well as adverse road and traffic conditions.

According to FMCSA, these conditions must have been unexpected by the fleet dispatcher before the trip began. For instance, heavy rush-hour traffic expected during holidays wouldn't qualify as adverse road conditions because it's a foreseeable event.

However, there can be gray areas. For example, if heavy winds were predicted at a specific time but occurred much later than expected. Each situation must be evaluated individually to determine if it qualifies as an adverse condition under FMCSA rules.

What are Some Useful Driving Tips in These Conditions?

Handling driving in adverse conditions requires skilled training for drivers, ensuring their safety and the efficiency of your business operations.

Fleet managers must prioritize keeping operations smooth and safe. Therefore, it's crucial to establish the best practices for navigating adverse driving conditions effectively.

It’s highly recommended to consider a driving school e.g., Executive Driving School to have proper driving lessons from experts. This will boost your confidence on the road.

1. Heavy Rain

Here are 4 tips for handling heavy rain while driving:

1. Turn on Windshield Wipers and Headlights: Enhance visibility by using windshield wipers and headlights, even during daylight.

2. Slow Down: Reduce speed to maintain control and react quickly to changing road conditions.

3. Increase Following Distance: Leave extra space between your vehicle and allow others for sudden stops or maneuvers.

4. Stay Aware of Surroundings: Be mindful of other vehicles, especially in adverse conditions where inexperienced drivers may struggle to maintain control.

2. Heavy Snow

To minimize the risk of accidents while driving in snowy and icy conditions, consider these 4 tips:

1. Accelerate and Decelerate Smoothly: Gradually accelerate to avoid wheel slippage and decelerate early when approaching stops to maintain control.

2. Carry Snow Chains and Shovel: Keep snow chains and a shovel in your vehicle for emergencies or when roads are heavily snow-covered.

3. Use Low-Beam Headlights: to improve visibility in snowfall and reduce glare.

4. Avoid Stopping on Uphill: Maintain momentum when climbing hills to avoid slipping and getting stuck. If possible, try to avoid stopping on uphill slopes.

3.    Heavy Winds

To handle the dangers posed by heavy winds while driving a truck, follow these 3 precautions:

1. Maintain a Firm Grip on the Steering Wheel: Be prepared for sudden gusts by holding the steering wheel firmly to maintain control of the vehicle.

2. Watch for Surrounding Hazards: Stay aware of nearby trees and debris that could be blown onto the road, posing a hazard.

3. Be Cautious on Multi-Lane Highways: Monitor vehicles around you, particularly on multi-lane highways where wind effects vary between lanes.

Why Choose Executive Driving School for Professional Driving Training?

At Executive Driving School, we provide a diverse range of driving training including Class A and B CDL training. We have the NYS Department of Motor Vehicle’s certified instructors so you’ll learn from the experts.