Trucking safety a focus during winter storms

There are few industries that have not been affected by this week's winter weather, which is impacting a large portion of the country. However, some sectors - including trucking - have been challenged to continue working, despite unfavorable conditions.

According to MyFoxLubbock.com, transportation professionals often work on very tight deadlines, which can be compromised when the weather does not cooperate. Inexperienced truckers who are focused more on keeping a schedule than staying safe have an increased risk of being involved in accidents.

In fact, recent winter storms in Texas - where snow is uncommon - have resulted in jackknifed trucks across the state, according to the news source.

Similar incidents have been reported in Illinois, where a jackknifed truck put traffic at a standstill for more than 14 hours on Tuesday, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Safety directors whose fleets travel across the country may want to consider enrolling their employees in online truck driver safety training courses. These classes could help operators learn how to handle inclement weather conditions, and decide when it is not advisable to be on the road.

By Andie Martin 

Trucking safety a focus during winter storms

Wednesday, February 2nd, 2011