Better Roads Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/221550
Winter driving without the drama; tips for that corporate driver safety program W inter driving conditions can be all over the map. Rain can be a hazard in areas that don't get much while near blizzard conditions are a normal commute for others. But don't assume employees know what to do when daylight hours are short, temperatures are low and waters are rising. With winter upon us, your company's driver safety program should get a warm-up for the cold ahead. There are two major factors that make winter driving different from driving during the warmer times of the year. Reduced visibility is the first safety challenge. Rain, fog, snow and more hours of darkness all add up to decreased visual input. Reduced driver vision means reduced reaction time. The second major seasonal PROPICKUP DIGITAL road hazard is reduced vehicle grip or traction. Wet pavement, standing water, build-up of fall leaves, ice and snow all interfere with the grip tires have on the road. When grip is lost, so is vehicle control. The good news: Reduced visibility and reduced grip can both be addressed with equipment, preparation, planning and driving techniques. a lower viscosity oil in the winter so check your owner's manual before making that next oil change. Auxiliary lights are a good way to address reduced visibility. Fog lights are designed to illuminate low along the road surface and to minimize reflective glare. Driv- By Larry Walton ing lights can reach out to find obstacles far ahead. Replace wiper blades as needed. Those impregnated with silicone are the best, while any new wiper blades are better than those that have seen more than one summer. Be sure the windshield washer TIMELY UPGRADE Improving the way your vehicle is equipped can help you handle the dark and dreary ahead. Make sure brakes, filters, belts and shocks are up to date. Batteries work harder to start vehicles in cooler temperatures so make sure your batteries are up to speed. Check the engine coolant for anti-freeze protection. Some manufacturers recommend using Tires are the singlemost important safety item on a pickup. Choosing dedicated ice/snow tires over other styles is a smart move.