Driving can be hazardous at any time, but the dangers can be magnified when high winds strike. Learn how to prepare for high winds and help protect your vehicles and employees using our motor carrier and driver safety tips below. For further assistance, please contact our Loss Control Department at 800-782-8902 x3805 or safety@lancerinsurance.com.
HIGH WINDS SAFETY TIPS FOR MOTOR CARRIERS & DRIVERS
Commercial vehicles, because of their height and size, are more susceptible to the force of winds than other vehicles. Transportation companies operating during high winds should remind their drivers of these important precautions to help avoid weather-related accidents:
Complete a pre-trip vehicle inspection as prescribed by federal regulations. Drivers hauling cargo must also ensure that their loads are properly secured and should be aware that, in high winds, an empty trailer is more dangerous than a loaded one.
Check news reports, online and weather channels as part of your trip-planning routine and periodically along your route. Pay close attention to wind speeds and keep in mind that altitude and other weather events (e.g., thunderstorms) can affect wind conditions. When high winds are likely, avoid the trip, if possible, and wait until the weather is more accommodating. If you don't have that option, plan a route with the least exposure to the bad weather.
Watch for road signs warning of high winds. Also, be mindful of flags, windsocks, trees, tall grass, rising smoke, and other vehicles that can help indicate the wind's strength and direction.
SLOW DOWN in high winds. The faster you drive, the more a wind gust can push you off course.
Be extra cautious on elevated roads and bridges, near open fields and at gaps between trees and buildings. These are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to crosswinds, which can often make it harder for large commercial vehicles to maintain control.
Keep both hands firmly on the wheel and maintain an extra cushion of space around your vehicle. Pay particular attention to motorcyclists and bicyclists who may be more easily pushed around by high winds and into your path of travel.
Look out for flying debris — anything that becomes airborne can block your sight lines and cause injury or damage. High winds can also knock down power lines, so stay alert.
Importantly, if winds are severe enough to prevent safe driving, pull off the road to a safe and legal area, away from trees, power lines or other objects that could fall onto your vehicle, until dangers have subsided (see FMCSR 392.14). Try to get behind a large object, such as a building, or turn head-on into the wind when you park; avoid parking broadside.
> Additional Resources
For additional information on operating in high-wind situations, please consult the following:
