Truck driving in the rain is more dangerous than swimming in shark-infested waters. Joking aside, being caught in a rainstorm is serious business and should be handled in a professional, levelheaded manner.
The truth is, thousands of truckers die every year all over the world and vehicle collisions are one of the top five reasons. Keep on reading to stay safe while truck-driving in the rain:
AVOID HYDROPLANING
Some 18-wheelers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Add hydroplaning to the mix and you have a recipe for disaster. Hydroplaning normally occurs in the beginning of a rainstorm, as oil, gas and fuel are brought to the roads’ surface, causing a severe slick and slippery effect. Keep these three things in mind to avoid hydroplaning:
— Slow Down and drive below speed limit if necessary.
— Turn on your headlights and tail lights for maximum visibility.
— Create a good “space cushion” between you and other vehicles.
STAY ALERT
Never lose sight of what’s in front of you, regardless of reduced visibility. Stay focused. Keep your eyes on the road and two hands on the wheel. Looking away can cause you to unexpectedly flip over, skid and swerve, or crash. Avoiding or giving in to distractions can mean the difference between life and death. Below are some things you shouldn’t do while truck driving in a rainstorm:
— Do NOT reach for objects on the dashboard, the passenger seat, back seat and anywhere else.
— Do NOT talk on a mobile phone because it’s distracting and decreases your reaction time in the event of an accident.
— Do NOT eat or drink because it encourages you to take one or both hands off the wheel.
I like that you point out to not talk on the phone when driving. This is especially important when driving a truck that weighs so much. I get so frustrated when I am driving and see someone recklessly driving who is on their phone. I recommend using speaker phone or having it be heard throughout your car.
Driving and receiving calls is like oil and water. They don’t blend. The consequence could be very catastrophic. Your recommendations are the ideal for safety conscious drivers.