Every driver · 5 minutes

Winter driving toolbox talk

Ice and snow change everything about stopping, turning and climbing. Most winter crashes come from driving too fast for the conditions.

All Toolbox Talks

Vocational Trucks of America · Free toolbox talk

Every driver · 5 minutes · About 5 minutes · vocationaltrucksofamerica.com/talks

Read this to your crew

Before you roll, clear snow and ice from the windows, mirrors, lights, roof and the top of the body. Ice that flies off a truck can kill the driver behind you, and some states fine for it.

Check the wipers, washer fluid, defroster, and tire tread and pressure. On plows, check the lights, wing and spreader.

Carry chains if your route needs them, and know your state’s chain laws. Pack dry gloves, socks and a winter kit.

On the road, slow down and leave much more room: double or triple your normal following distance. Brake, steer and accelerate gently.

Watch bridges, overpasses and shaded spots; they freeze first. Be careful downshifting on ice.

If conditions get too bad, park the truck in a safe spot. Getting in and out on icy steps, use three points of contact.

Key points

Clear all snow and ice, including the roof and body.
Check wipers, defrost, tires; carry chains where required.
Slow down; double or triple following distance.
Bridges, overpasses and shade freeze first.
Too dangerous? Park in a safe spot.

Ask the crew

Do we have chains on board for today’s routes?
Where are the spots on our routes that freeze first?
Who decides when we stop driving, and how?

The rule behind it

Federal rules require extreme caution in hazardous conditions such as snow, ice, sleet and fog. Speed must be reduced, and if conditions become dangerous enough, the driver must stop until it is safe to go on (49 CFR 392.14).

49 CFR 392.14: Hazardous conditions; extreme caution

Today’s actionToday: clear the roof and body before you roll, and check that your chains and winter kit are on board.

General safety information for crew meetings, not legal advice. It doesn’t replace your company’s safety program, required training or site rules. Rules checked October 2026.

Prints on two pages: the talk, then a crew sign-in sheet. See the 52-week schedule.

Toolbox talk sign-in sheetFree from Vocational Trucks of America · vocationaltrucksofamerica.com/talks

Date

Time

Job or location

TopicWinter driving toolbox talk

Presenter

Weather and conditions

#	Name (print)	Signature	Company or crew
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Questions or concerns raised

Follow-up actions and who owns them

Keep the talks going

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See all toolbox talks, the sign-in sheet and the 52-week schedule →