The importance of commercial drivers cannot be overstated. These women and men driving across the world, delivering all sorts of goods and services keep the world and its economies thriving.
: Traction aids for heavy vehicles
A truck or other heavy vehicle that loses traction not only disrupts operations but can also lead to a dangerous situation. In regions where weather – or other – conditions entails the risk of slippery driving conditions, having some traction aid could be an obvious precaution to secure operation and prevent delays. Although there are similarities with traction aids for passenger cars, there are other requirements for trucks.
'When should I use a traction aid?' This seemingly simple question could be answered by 'whenever you lose traction'. However, it isn't as simple as that. There are situations when it's a good idea to use a traction aid even if traction isn't lost. And, there are situations where traction aids should not be used. Here is how you should think.
We should pay special attention to bridges and overpasses when driving in temperatures around the freezing point. Over the years we have heard that bridges may be icy while the road is not. We have also seen signs posted before bridges and overpasses which state this for safety reasons. This condition however is an important one that should be given some consideration. So how could the bridge be icy when the road is not? Here’s why.
Whether you are picking up household waste in isolated villages, driving children to school early in the morning, or delivering to customers awaiting their orders, drivers are almost always on the road. The open road can be great, but sometimes, the conditions can change to much less than favorable in a matter of minutes or even a couple miles.
Maybe you’ve been there? The road is becoming icy and slippery and you ought to get out there to mount the snow chains. But you’re in a hurry, so mounting time would cost you another hour of delay or so. And besides, you don’t feel like leaving your warm cab for the freezing cold roadside… So, is there a trick to get traction anyway? Actually, there is a trick that many experienced drivers know of. Yet, it’s a controversial trick. Here’s why!