how are the big trucks in the snow

Discussion in 'Motor Carrier Questions - The Inside Scoop' started by mikelouf2, Mar 28, 2008.

  1. mikelouf2

    mikelouf2 Bobtail Member

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    Mar 25, 2008
    carmel ny
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    hello i have drove the straight trucks in the snow as long i went very slow

    and stay away from hills i did fine how are does big trucks in the snow

    i see the drivers flying by me on the highway in the snow so i am

    guessing they are good thanks mike
     
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  3. Road Dog

    Road Dog Medium Load Member

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    Aug 1, 2006
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    I have lived my entire life in western,PA,and NE Ohio,so I have been driving in snow quite a bit.Driving a big truck in snow just takes some common sense. You definitly slow down and drive carefully. These truckers that are flying by you in the snow are just an accident waiting to happen. I also spent a couple of years in Alaska,(US Army)driving big trucks.Up there we were put thru a winter driving class.When all is said and done you slow down to a safe speed and take it easy.
     
  4. chief

    chief Heavy Load Member

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    Jul 15, 2007
    Flavor Country, NC
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    I would drive down I79 in WV in the passing lane covered with snow, passing 4 wheelers in the granny lane (which had been cleared,) if that answers your question.
     
  5. Roadmedic

    Roadmedic Road Train Member

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    How fast can you safely stop when in that lane passing cars?
     
  6. chief

    chief Heavy Load Member

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    Flavor Country, NC
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    stop for what?
     
  7. Roadmedic

    Roadmedic Road Train Member

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    For any reason.

    I always drive at the speed that can be safely stopped. I consider such conditions to be more alert and safer in.
     
  8. chief

    chief Heavy Load Member

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    Flavor Country, NC
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    there was nothing in front of me for miles. 70 MPH zone, I was doing maybe 55-60. the 4 wheelers in the granny lane were around 45-50. trust me, I wouldn't have been passing them if I didn't think it was safe. driving down a 70 MPH interstate on a clear road doing 45 is a little on the iffy side.

    but as far as handling, I can remember in training, driving up a mountain on a few inches of snow. there was a volvo wagon in front of me fishtailing, spinning and sliding around all over the place. I asked my trainer what his problem was. my rig was as surefooted as a three toe sloth. 18 wheelers go a LOT better in the snow than a lesser vehicle, in my experience. don't think you can't get stuck though.
     
  9. Roadmedic

    Roadmedic Road Train Member

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    I have been passed by several other trucks only to watch them start sliding out of control. Thankfully, I have been at a safer speed and much luckier to not tangle with them.

    Sometimes, there is nothing that triggers the problem, others it may be a sudden need to stop.

    When on snow there is much better traction, it is the ice that can develop that really worries me.
     
  10. mikelouf2

    mikelouf2 Bobtail Member

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    Mar 25, 2008
    carmel ny
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    thank you guys as long as i go slow and use chains i should be alright
     
  11. Roadmedic

    Roadmedic Road Train Member

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    I have never used chains. In some states they are not legal. In the western mountain areas, some states require them to be carried.
     
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