As the nights draw in and the seasons change, drivers should be aware of the risks and dangers that may be faced whilst driving in these conditions to stay safe on the road. As the days grow shorter, drivers will find themselves driving in darkness more frequently. Reduced daylight hours can lead to fatigue, lower visibility, and slower reaction times. It’s vital to be alert, particularly during twilight hours. Yours and other road users safety is a priority, stay safe!
Driving in Icy/Snowing Conditions
• Extend the distance between you and the vehicle in front to a safe distance.
• Reduce your speed.
• Take extra care when entering and exiting the vehicle.
• Anticipate how conditions may affect other road users and how they may react.
• You may use your windscreen wipers and washers more so ensure your washer fluid is topped up.
• If you are in danger, pull over to a safe place
• Do not use the engine retarder as this may lead to a vehicle jack-knife
• Refrain from doing anything sudden – sudden braking, sudden acceleration, cornering etc.
• Apply brakes smoothly, softly and in plenty of time. Avoid heavy braking at all times.
• Braking distances will increase at least ten times more than that of normal dry weather.
• If loaded ensure that the load is fully secure.
• Be mindful of cruise control during icy and snowy conditions.
• Select the right gear/changing down for the road conditions you are on.
• In severe snow you may need to also engage the Diff Locks on the vehicle for slow manoeuvring purposes only.
• Ensure you pack suitable attire for weather conditions, you might get stranded.
Driving in Fog
• Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front. You should be able to pull up within your range of vision.
• Read the road ahead as far as possible. Forward planning and observation will help you avoid getting into difficult situations.
• Fog or dipped head lamps may only be used when visibility is seriously reduced while the vehicle is in motion or forced to stop.
• Reduce your speed and disengage cruise control (if applied)
• Use your windscreen wipers and washers when appropriate, always ensure you have topped up your washer fluid.
• Be aware of vulnerable road users which you may not be able to see easily.
• If you are in danger, pull over at a safe place.
Driving in Windy Conditions
• Be aware and avoid where possible, exposed or high roads (bridges, flyovers etc)
• Anticipate how conditions may affect other road users (caravans, motorcyclists) and take special care when overtaking.
• Take particular care when driving high sided vehicles and empty trailers. You may wish to tie both curtain sides back to reduce the effect of the wind. Make sure you do this securely.
• Be aware of places where conditions may change quickly such as a gap in trees.
• Reduce your speed and disengage cruise control if applied.
• Be aware that lower speed limits, lane closures or diversions may be imposed.
Driving in Heavy Rain & Heavy surface water on carriage ways
• When there is heavy surface water and extreme rain disengage cruise control.
• Reduce your speed, stay safe on the road.
• Fallen leaves especially when wet, can create a slippery road surface leading to a risk of skidding.
• Allow plenty of space between you & the vehicle in front. Allow Approx 100 metres at 80kph. Make sure your speed is suitable to the conditions.
• Drive with dipped headlights
• Get to know and how to operate & adjust the demister settings in the vehicle to prevent fogging up.
• If your vehicle starts to aquaplane or lose traction come off the accelerator DO NOT APPLY THE BRAKES HEAVILY use vehicle gears.
Bright Sunlight
• Be aware of places where conditions may change quickly such as a gap in trees or buildings.
• Ensure your visor is fully functioning before setting off on your journey.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Slippery Roads and Poor Visibility
Vehicle inspections are essential in your role, in all weather conditions. With these challenges in mind, it’s essential that HGV drivers take extra precautions to prepare their vehicles and themselves for these driving conditions. Here are some vital tips to keep stay safe on the road:
1. Check Tyres Regularly: Tyre tread depth is crucial for maintaining grip on wet or slippery roads. Ensure your tyres meet the legal requirement (1mm tread depth for HGV’s) but aim for a tread depth of at least 3mm during autumn to maximise traction. Tyre pressure is equally important – under inflated tyres can affect handling and increase stopping distances.
2. Ensure Lights Are Working Properly: Visibility is often reduced during autumn due to fog, rain, and shorter daylight hours. Make sure all lights – including headlights, brake lights, and indicators – are working effectively.
If you do have to exit from your vehicle whilst in any of these conditions be fully aware of all your surroundings and exit from the nearside/curb side of your vehicle if it’s safe to do so or you have been instructed to by Highways Agency or the Police.
You can find more driver support to stay safe on the road here.
