COMPILED BY THE RISK MANAGEMENT STAFF
Winter driving can be a hazardous task for Soldiers, especially in regions susceptible to a lot of snow. Severe weather can make road conditions unpredictable and treacherous. Even in southern locations, where winters are usually mild, unusual freezing temperatures or unexpected snow and ice may bring driving surprises. In addition to inclement weather, Soldiers are faced with fewer hours of daylight during these months. If proper techniques aren’t applied and Soldiers don’t exercise caution, winter driving could quickly turn into a tragedy.
It is important drivers prepare themselves and their vehicles for any conditions they may encounter. For most, driving in adverse weather usually takes longer and requires more attention to detail. Before a Soldier gets behind the wheel to perform an assigned mission, they should apply the risk management process described in Department of the Army Pamphlet 385-30 and conduct preventive maintenance checks and services in accordance with technical manuals.
The threats Soldiers face during winter depend on specific situations and how well they are trained on proper driving techniques. Therefore, leaders should stress that Soldiers attend driver training. A well-trained driver will be able to apply winter driving skills and be aware of how cold weather affects a vehicle before, during and after an operation to avoid a mishap from occurring.
An important fact to remember is vehicles don’t stop as fast on ice or snow-covered pavement. When preparing to stop, drivers should allow for more time and slow down earlier than usual, especially when driving behind other vehicles. They should also maintain a greater distance between vehicles. Slowing down when following vehicles, in turns or just driving on straight roads will give drivers more time to react in the event of unexpected stops.
Drivers and truck commanders (TCs) need to be deliberate in all driving actions. When turning the vehicle, drivers should release the gas pedal slowly and avoid fast, jerky movements. When a pedal needs to be pushed — gas or brake — it needs to be done gradually and steadily. Road conditions must be observed and weather reports must be obtained before the mission starts. Even when it’s not snowing, the road could ice up in places where there’s moisture. This will happen more during the overnight hours, when it’s colder.
Soldiers need to apply defensive driving techniques meticulously during the winter months and be alert for other motorists making mistakes on the road. Drivers should approach intersections cautiously to avoid skidding, and rearview mirrors need to be monitored for other vehicles that are traveling too closely for the road conditions. If a driver starts sliding, they should not panic or step on the brakes, which could send the vehicle into a skid. Simply let your foot off the gas pedal and steer the vehicle into the skid. For example, if driving straight and the rear of the vehicle starts sliding left and the front to the right, the driver should countersteer the vehicle to the left. If the vehicle corrects itself, straighten the wheel. Sometimes a driver will overcorrect, and the vehicle will slide the other way. If this happens, countersteer again in the opposite direction.
Because winter weather can affect visibility and stopping distances, here are a few tips Soldiers should apply when driving in adverse conditions:
- Ensure all service drive lights and reflective devices are clean and unobstructed.
- Allow extra time for your mission and reduce speed.
- Increase the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front and be certain you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
- If visibility is reduced by fog, use headlights and/or fog lights.
- Remember to turn high beams off when they are no longer needed, as they can be a distraction to other drivers.
- Remember — snow can be seen, but ice isn’t always visible.
- Avoid sudden braking, accelerating too quickly and harsh steering in slippery conditions.
- Keep the windshield clear of snow and check from time to time that there is no buildup of snow on the lights.
- Take precautions when crossing intersections when snow and ice are present.
Did You Know?
The valuable information and resources available in the Driver’s Training Toolbox provide every Soldier with the tools needed to complete the mission safely. Visit https://safety.army.mil/ON-DUTY/Drivers-Training-Toolbox and get started today. An AKO/EAMS login is required.