Though temperatures are steadily creeping upwards in San Antonio, TX, there’s still some leftover winter rains to contend with before spring is really in full swing. While rain may not seem as dangerous to truck drivers as an ice storm, it still doesn’t help matters when you’re going long distances and sharing the road with inexperienced non-commercial drivers. The truck drivers at Bay and Bay Transportation urge all their fellow drivers to play it safe in all types of weather, even if it seems like your windshield wipers are handling most of the heavy lifting on their own.
Truck driving in all conditions is a necessity for anyone who wants to succeed in the business. This may seem like common sense, but it can be easy to get accustomed to mild weather when you live and drive in warmer climates. Even if you’re not dealing with a blizzard, you should still be familiar with and know how to combat the major risks associated with any type of inclement weather.
When it comes to rain, one of the major threats is hydroplaning. Hydroplaning isn’t just a threat to small, compact cars. Truck drivers are just as susceptible to the phenomenon, and the results can be more catastrophic. Roads can stay slippery after the worst of the storm has passed, and
as a truck driver, it’s your job to be an example to the other drivers around you, even if it isn’t officially in your job description. While truck driving, you’re often one of the biggest targets on the road. Lead by example, take it slow, and ease into slippery areas with more caution.
It’s also important to remember that visibility may be an issue thanks to mist, fog, and other byproducts of a major rain storm. Steamy roads aren’t a major risk if the day is clear, but if you pair mist and fog with dim conditions, you have a recipe for an accident. While truck driving you probably have a better vantage point than the casual commuters that surround you. Use your eyes and best judgment, and watch out for the drivers around you that aren’t using either.
And finally, in all types of weather, expect the drivers around you to make poor choices. This is one of the most important rules of responsible truck driving; never expect other drivers to act rationally or know how to react to unexpected road conditions. Judge them on their action and reactions, not by your standards as a professional truck driver.
If you’re a professional truck driver in San Antonio, TX, interested in a new truck driving career, or are ready to take on the rain as a truck driver for the first time, contact Bay and Bay Transportation. Call us at (888) 801-3026, or visit our website here today for information on our available positions and other truck driving opportunities.