Archives November 2025

It’s that time of year again! Driving a HGV in snowy conditions can be challenging, but with the right preparation, it’s manageable. Navigating treacherous winter roads requires not just skill but careful planning and awareness. Here are some detailed tips for staying safe on the road:

Pre-Trip Inspection: Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready by thoroughly checking all critical components. Examine your tyres for adequate tread and proper inflation, assess your brakes for responsiveness, inspect your lights to ensure they are fully operational, and confirm that your wipers are effective at clearing snow and ice.

Slow Down: Reduced speed can significantly help you maintain control on icy roads. Remember, it’s better to arrive late than not at all. Reducing your speed will give you more time to react to any unexpected situations.

Increase Following Distance: On slippery surfaces, your stopping distance can be up to ten times longer. Make sure to give yourself plenty of room between your HGV and the vehicle in front. This added distance provides the necessary time to brake gently and come to a safe stop.

Use Low Gears: Engaging low gears helps maintain traction, especially when navigating uphill slopes or descending down steep inclines. Low gears prevent your wheels from spinning too quickly, reducing the risk of skidding.

Emergency Kit: Always have an emergency kit that includes essentials such as blankets, food, a first aid kit, extra clothing, and a flashlight. Include items specifically for winter conditions like ice scrapers, tire chains, and a bag of sand or cat litter for traction if you get stuck.

Stay safe out there, and remember, no load is worth risking your life! Take necessary precautions and make safety your top priority. To book your CPC training, call Rue on 07720 737482 or email rue@wetraincpc.co.uk to find out more and book your place.

The festive season is fast approaching, and for lorry drivers, this means it’s time to prepare for an increase in demand. With a surge in deliveries, it’s crucial to ensure you’re ready to keep things moving smoothly. Here are some key things to consider:

Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your lorry is in top condition. Regular checks on tyres, brakes, and lights can prevent breakdowns. If you have concerns, double check. Consider how your LGV responds to changing weather conditions too.

Plan Routes: Expect more traffic and potentially adverse weather conditions. Use traffic and weather apps to avoid delays and stay safe. Consider that it may take longer than usual on normal routes given the increased traffic.

Compliance: Make sure your paperwork, including licences and delivery permits, is up to date. If your CPC training is due, give us a call and we’ll book you into our next CPC training course!

Rest Well: Longer hours are likely, but safety should always come first. Adhere to regulations regarding rest periods to avoid fatigue. Eat well and look after yourself!

Being prepared can make all the difference in ensuring that everyone gets their festive deliveries on time. Let’s make this season merry and bright for all!

To book your CPC training, call Rue on 07720 737482 or email rue@wetraincpc.co.uk to find out more and book your place.