How does weather impact the road?

If you have spent any amount of time as a driver, regardless of the vehicle type, you know one thing to be true: Weather conditions are not always ideal.

When the weather takes a turn for the worse, it is important to make changes that will keep you and those around you safe.

Truckers, in particular, need to adjust their approach when the weather changes. For example, driving in the rain means that traction can be compromised. It also means that visibility will be lower. If a trucker continues to drive at a fast rate of speed, it will increase the risk of an accident.

There are many other types of weather conditions that impact the road, including but not limited to, snow, ice, wind, and hail.

High wind, for instance, can push trucks and other high profile vehicles all over the road. This means that truck drivers should keep more distance between other vehicles.

Of course, passenger vehicle drivers need to take many of the same precautions. If you drive too close to a truck in high wind, you are risking an accident. Just the same as the trucker can take steps towards improving safety, you can do the same.

Unfortunately, not all truck drivers make changes when road conditions worsen. Instead, they continue to drive as they normally would, as they don’t want to lose time.

If you are involved in a truck accident, wait for police and medical personnel to arrive. From there, once you are stabilized, you can better understand the events that led to the accident and begin contemplating compensation.

Source: United States Department of Transportation, “How Do Weather Events Impact Roads?” accessed May 06, 2016