Truck drivers 'need to load and drive safely' to avoid jack-knifing

Date: 29/11/2010

Lorry operators have been urged to be extra vigilant when loading and driving in icy conditions, after the severe weather caused a number of large vehicles to jack-knife.

According to the Road Haulage Association (RHA), inappropriate loading can lead to jack-knifing in extreme weather, as the driver's control is reduced if the load is concentrated towards the rear of the trailer.

The organisation reminded people to keep a constant pressure on the brakes rather than pumping them, while they should check their ABS and EBS systems are working properly, as a build-up of snow and ice on the sensors could affect performance.

"Drivers should proceed with especial care during snowy and icy conditions and leave considerably more room between themselves and the vehicle in front," the RHS stated, adding roads with insufficient gritting can make trucks more prone to jack-knifing.

The Met Office has issued a number of severe weather warnings today (November 29th), forecasting widespread icy roads for regions including Northern Ireland, Grampian and the Highlands, while Yorkshire and the east of England will be hit by heavy snow.

Posted by Mary Treen