Winter Driving Safety: Essential Tips for HGV Drivers

Winter conditions present unique challenges for HGV drivers. Reduced visibility, icy roads, and shorter daylight hours all increase risk. Proper preparation and adjusted driving techniques can keep you safe through the coldest months.

Pre-Trip Winter Checks

Your standard walk-around check becomes even more important in winter. Add these to your routine:

• Lights — clean all lenses. Dirty lights can reduce visibility by up to 50%
• Windscreen — clear all ice completely, not just a small patch. Check washer fluid level and use a winter-grade mix
• Mirrors — de-ice and clean thoroughly
• Tyres — check tread depth (legal minimum 1mm for HGVs across 75% of the tread width, but 3mm+ is safer in winter). Check pressures are correct
• Air tanks — drain moisture from air tanks to prevent brake valve freezing
• Trailer coupling — check fifth wheel and connections are free from ice
• Fuel — keep the tank above half full. Cold weather increases consumption, and you may need to idle for heating

Driving Techniques for Winter Conditions

On Ice and Snow

• Increase following distance to at least double normal — a fully laden HGV on ice can take ten times the normal stopping distance
• Use the highest gear possible to reduce wheel spin when pulling away
• Brake gently and progressively — avoid sudden pedal inputs
• Be especially cautious on bridges and overpasses, which freeze before other road surfaces
• Watch for black ice, particularly in shaded areas and after sunset

In Fog

• Use dipped headlights, not full beam (which reflects back off fog)
• Turn on fog lights when visibility drops below 100 metres, and remember to turn them off when conditions improve
• Reduce speed gradually — sudden braking in fog causes pile-ups
• Use road markings and cat's eyes for guidance
• Open your window slightly to listen for traffic you cannot see

Heavy Rain and Standing Water

• Aquaplaning risk increases with speed — reduce your pace
• Increase following distances — spray from your own vehicle reduces visibility for following traffic
• Be aware of surface water pooling in dips and underpasses
• After driving through standing water, test your brakes gently

Legal Responsibilities

You are legally responsible for ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive in the conditions. This means:

• If conditions are genuinely unsafe, you have the right to stop and wait
• Your employer cannot legally force you to drive in conditions you consider dangerous
• Snow and ice on the roof of your trailer must be removed before driving — falling ice is a serious hazard to other road users
• You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres even in poor conditions

Winter Kit to Carry

Keep the following in your cab throughout winter:

• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch with fresh batteries
• Warm clothing, waterproof jacket, and sturdy boots
• Blanket or sleeping bag
• Food and water supplies
• Fully charged mobile phone and in-cab charger
• High-visibility vest

Your safety comes first. If you are unsure about conditions on a planned route, contact your transport office or TRS Recruit coordinator for advice. We would always rather reschedule a delivery than risk a driver's safety.