Year after year, the roads are becoming more dangerous. With road fatalities reaching a 20-year high during the first quarter of 2022, companies need to be more mindful than ever of their drivers’ safety and behaviors while behind the wheel. This is especially so now that the winter months are right around the corner – when road conditions are much more dangerous.
Unexpected situations, such as a flat tire, can quickly spiral into an emergency in winter weather conditions. Having clearly defined procedures can keep drivers safe and keep your company out of the headlines throughout the winter months and beyond.
Below, we discuss the critical components that every fleet’s winter safety policy should cover.
The Components of a Proactive Winter Driving Safety Policy
An effective winter driver safety policy covers:
- Avoiding injuries
- Breakdown procedures
- Drowsy driving
- Emergency supplies
- Recommended speeds
- Vehicle maintenance
- Planning alternate routes
- What to do if you get stuck in the snow
- Considerations for electric vehicles
Get Your Checklist: Winter Policies and Procedures
An effective winter driver safety policy works to:
Prevent Hazardous Situations
The key to avoiding incidents during the winter months is proactiveness. Your drivers should be well-educated on proper procedures for handling poor road conditions before getting behind the wheel. While they may be training frequently on defensive driving skills, winter weather conditions call for specific preparation beyond staying alert.
Reduce Driver Anxiety and Turnover
It’s critical that drivers feel confident in their ability and preparedness to take on winter weather conditions. This is especially so for newer drivers who don’t have as many years of experience under their belt. A winter safety policy that sets clear expectations will provide the guidance needed to set these drivers up for success. In turn, drivers will feel more comfortable behind the wheel, leading to more satisfaction in their role.
This isn’t limited to new drivers. Seasoned drivers also need refreshers throughout the changing seasons. This is especially so as new technologies, vehicles, routes and protocols are introduced. Your drivers should feel confident knowing that your approach to safety incorporates the most current practices.
So, You Have a Comprehensive Winter Safety Policy in Place. What Next?
Once you’ve finalized your policy, send it to everyone on your team and follow up with regular reminders.
For example, if snow is in the forecast:
- Remind dispatchers they need to give drivers extra time for a pre-trip inspection and advise drivers when chains are required along their route.
- Ensure drivers know what emergency supplies they are expected to carry and how to obtain supplies.
This proactive, continuous communication helps keep your written procedures top of mind, and it facilitates stronger employee engagement and commitment throughout your fleet.
Winter Driving Safety Policies Made Easy
If you don’t have a winter safety policy, or if you’re unsure whether your current policy is thorough enough, download our free winter safety policy checklist.
Use it as a template to create a comprehensive winter driving policy, or confirm your existing procedures cover all the bases!
Our checklist was designed by safety experts to be as comprehensive as possible. That said, it’s a good idea to seek input from experienced drivers, dispatchers and managers to ensure your policy thoroughly covers any company-specific procedures or equipment.