10 Essential Tips for Sharing the Road with Large Trucks During Winter
How Winter Weather Changes Driving Dynamics with Large Vehicles
Sharing the road with large trucks in the Maritimes during winter can present serious challenges.
The combination of icy conditions, snow-covered roads, and poor visibility often make these
encounters more dangerous, leading to higher rates of collisions. Large trucks, due to their size and
weight, require more time to stop and manoeuvre, making it critical for drivers to exercise caution.
In Canada, large truck collisions increase by 30% during the winter months, emphasizing the
importance of safe driving habits when sharing the road.
Below are 10 essential tips for staying safe while sharing the road with large trucks during winter
conditions in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
1. Increase Following Distance
Large trucks take longer to stop, especially on icy or snowy roads. According to the Canadian
Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA), large commercial trucks can require twice
as much stopping distance in winter. Stay at least 6 to 8 seconds behind a truck and increase this
distance during heavier snow or ice storms.
2. Avoid Blind Spots
Large trucks have much larger blind spots than passenger vehicles. These are often referred to as
the “No-Zones”. Trucks have blind spots on both sides, directly behind, and in front of the truck. In
snowy or foggy conditions, it becomes even harder for truck drivers to spot smaller vehicles.
Transport Canada advises that if you cannot see the truck’s mirrors, the truck driver cannot see
you.
3. Pass with Caution
When passing a large truck, do so swiftly but safely. Due to their size, trucks may block visibility,
and winter weather can worsen the risk. On New Brunswick’s Route 2 (Trans-Canada Highway),
notorious for icy conditions, multiple accidents involving trucks are reported every winter. Always
signal your intentions, pass on the left, and ensure there is ample room before merging back in
front of the truck.
4. Be Aware of Wide Turns
Large trucks need more space to turn, particularly in urban areas or at intersections. In Nova
Scotia, accidents involving trucks making wide right turns are a common occurrence during the
winter months. Trucks may swing into another lane to complete the turn. Stay back and give them
enough room to maneuver safely.
5. Watch for Snow and Debris Spray
Driving behind a truck in winter can reduce visibility due to spray from snow, slush, and ice. Ensure
that your windshield wipers are in good condition and keep your washer fluid topped up. Large
trucks also kick up more road debris, so maintaining a greater following distance will help minimize
your exposure to hazards.
6. Use Headlights to Increase Visibility
Winter storms in the Maritimes can quickly reduce visibility. Always use your headlights when
sharing the road with trucks, even during daylight hours, to ensure they can see you. In PEI, where
85% of winter truck-related crashes occur during poor visibility conditions, being visible to other
drivers is crucial for your safety.
7. Prepare for Wind Turbulence
Large trucks create wind turbulence, which can be particularly dangerous in high winds. On the
Confederation Bridge, connecting PEI to the mainland, winds can reach up to 150 km/h during
winter storms, making passing or driving near large trucks risky. Hold the steering wheel firmly to
maintain control of your vehicle.
8. Plan for Longer Stops and Starts
Winter roads are slippery, and trucks take longer to stop and start. Avoid pulling in front of a truck
and then slowing down, especially on hills or in traffic. In cold climates, winter accidents
involving trucks often occur due to sudden braking in snowy conditions, where trucks are unable to
stop in time.
9. Check Road Conditions Regularly
Before heading out, especially on longer drives through rural areas in Nova Scotia or New
Brunswick, check road conditions. Sites like 511 New Brunswick or Nova Scotia’s road condition
alerts provide up-to-date information on winter weather and accident reports, helping you plan
your trip accordingly.
10. Stay Calm in Truck Convoys
During severe winter storms, large trucks often travel in convoys. Do not attempt to overtake a
convoy unless you are certain it is safe. Stay back and let the trucks lead through treacherous
conditions, as they are more equipped to handle icy roads.
Driving in the winter alongside large trucks in the Maritimes can be a daunting task, especially when
road conditions are at their worst. By increasing your following distance, being aware of blind
spots, and ensuring that your vehicle is visible, you can reduce the risk of an accident. Winter
driving demands patience and caution, particularly when sharing the road with trucks that require
more space and time to manoeuvre. If you’ve been involved in a truck-related accident, consulting
a personal injury lawyer can help ensure your rights are protected.
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For over 35 years, CLG Injury Lawyers have helped thousands of injured clients. We fight for your rights to receive the maximum compensation you deserve. Providing you the Peace of Mind to focus on your Road to Recovery. Our experienced personal injury lawyers offer a free, no obligation case evaluation.
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