Driving and caring for an HGV in winter

1. Check the basics

Before starting any winter journey, check your:

• Tyres: Ensure they’re all in excellent condition with adequate tread depth and at the correct pressure – as cold weather can cause tyre pressure to drop. Consider using either winter tyres or all-season tyres with a good grip.
• Battery: Cold weather can drain a vehicle’s battery quicker. Test the battery’s voltage and ensure it’s fully charged. Replace it in good time if it’s nearing the end of its life.
• Lights: Visibility can be significantly reduced during winter. Check all your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators to ensure they are working properly and are clean and clear of snow and ice.
• Windscreen and wipers: Ensure the windscreen isn’t cracked, and the wipers are in good condition. Use a winter-grade washer fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures.
• Brakes: Test the brakes and ensure the pads, discs, and fluids are in top condition.
• Heating and defrosting systems: Check that the heating system works effectively and that the defrosters are working, as they’re critical for maintaining visibility.

2. Driving techniques

Driving an HGV in winter requires skill, patience, and a solid understanding of how to handle a large vehicle in adverse conditions:

• Reduce speed: Icy roads can reduce traction, making it harder to stop or control the vehicle. Always drive at a speed appropriate for the conditions, even if it’s well below the speed limit.
• Maintain safe distances: On icy, snowy or wet roads, increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front to account for longer stopping distances.
• Gentle manoeuvres: Make your steering, acceleration, and braking smooth and gentle, to keep control of your vehicle.
• Engine braking: Use engine braking to slow down the vehicle, especially when going down hills, to reduce the risk of skidding. However, avoid excessive use of this on slippery roads, as it can cause your wheels to lock.
• Anticipate road conditions: For example, look out for patches of black ice, especially in shaded areas, as these spots tend to freeze first and thaw last.
• Chains: In extreme conditions, using tyre chains can provide extra traction, but make sure you know how to install them properly.

3. Essential equipment

Carrying the right equipment can be a lifesaver in winter conditions:

• Snow chains: Even if you don’t use them very often, having them to hand can be crucial for navigating steep, icy roads.
• Shovel: A compact snow shovel is useful for digging out snow around tyres.
• De-icer and scraper: These are essential for quickly clearing ice from your windscreen, side windows and mirrors.
• Emergency kit: This should include a torch, reflective triangles, high-visibility clothing, and blankets.
• First-aid kit: Always have a well-stocked first-aid kit in case of emergencies.
• Tow rope: Useful for getting unstuck or helping others who might be in a difficult situation.
• Spare bulbs and fuses: Cold weather can increase the likelihood of electrical components failing.

4. Vehicle maintenance

All vehicles need on-going care to keep them in tip-top condition throughout the winter:

• Clean regularly: Salt and grit from the roads can cause corrosion. Regular washing, especially the underside, can help prevent rust.
• Monitor fluids: Make sure that all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid—are topped up and are of the correct grade for winter use.
• Battery care: Check your battery terminals regularly for corrosion and clean them as needed. If the battery is struggling to hold a charge, replace it before it fails while you’re on the road.
• Air system maintenance: If your HGV is equipped with an air braking system, ensure that the air tanks are drained daily to prevent moisture building up, as this can freeze and cause brake failure.
• Check belts and hoses: Cold temperatures can make belts and hoses brittle, increasing the risk of cracks or breaks. Regular inspections can help spot potential issues before they cause breakdowns.

5. Planning and communication

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so planning your journey and maintaining communication are crucial:

• Route planning: Check your local weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your journey. Think about possible alternative routes in case of road closures or severe weather.
• Timing: Allow extra time for your journey to account for slower driving speeds and potential delays.
• Keep up-to-date: Use GPS or an app that provides real-time traffic and weather updates.
• Communication: Keep your team informed of your progress and any changes in your route or schedule. In the event of an emergency, having a reliable way to communicate is essential.

6. Prepare for emergencies

If you get caught in an emergency, being prepared can make all the difference:

• Know your limits: If the weather becomes too severe, it’s safer to pull over and wait for conditions to improve rather than risk being involved in an accident.
• Stay with the vehicle: If you become stranded, it’s usually safer to stay with your vehicle rather than trying to walk for help, especially in blizzard conditions.
• Use hazard warning lights: When stopped at the side of the road, always use your hazard warning lights to alert other drivers of your position.
• Conserve fuel: In a prolonged emergency, conserve fuel by only running the engine intermittently to stay warm.

Conclusion

Driving and caring for an HGV in winter poses significant challenges. However, with the right approach – careful preparation, cautious driving, and ongoing maintenance – you can minimise the risks and ensure that your drivers, vehicles and cargo reach their destinations safely.

Keith Hayden, Sales Manager, Dawsondirect