Light trucks are generally heavier and higher riding
Be aware of the potential danger
Develop the skills needed to maneuver
- Avoid over-confidence
Add the proper amount of antifreeze to the engine coolant. It will protect your truck against freezing and corrosion. Check the battery to make sure you have ample power for cold winter starts. Check your brakes. If the brakes are not performing well, the truck may pull to one side when stopping. Take along emergency supplies. A flashlight, blanket, sand or salt, and an ice scraper are indispensable. Check the heater and defroster. They'll keep you comfortable and the windshield free of ice and condensation. Change your oil. Winter grade oil ensures easy starting. Use the right windshield fluid. Together with proper wipers, an antifreeze solution will keep your windshields clean at all times.
- Be aware of the potential danger posed by heavier, higher-riding vehicles to other drivers.
Light trucks are generally heavier and higher riding, so their bumpers can be deadly to smaller cars on impact. Drivers of light trucks should be aware of the danger this poses to smaller vehicles.
- Develop the skills needed to tow trailers safely
Light trucks are often used to tow trailers, for purposes ranging from general hauling to campers and boats. It's not easy to maneuver around corners and change lanes when towing an extra vehicle. Also challenging is backing up, as well as driving uphill, or downhill.
A few basic pointers to keep in mind:
- Don't tow too much weight
- Use the right hitch and other equipment
- Load your trailer properly
- Get some help hooking up
- Run the right wheels and tires
- Add more power
- Avoid overheating
- Keep your tow vehicle level
- Put together an adequate emergency kit, especially for winter driving in remote locations.
Be ready in case you get stuck. Have a jack and cables adequate for your truck's weight and size. Use a solid container for your kit (a heavy bag or case). Some things to include: road flares, wool blankets, jumper cables, snacks, small cook stove, soup packets, cook pots and eating utensils, thick socks, hat, mittens, medications, tire chains, snow shovel, candle, lighter and matches, flashlight and radio with good batteries, something to read during long waits. Don't forget medicines and essential personal supplies. Always have a first-aid kit. And make sure your mobile phone has adequate battery strength.
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- Prepare well in advance to meet the special requirements of different seasons.
You must prepare your truck and tires well in advance for winter, but also for the other seasons. Fog, excessive rainfall, snow and ice, and glare and heat all bring specific kinds of adjustments and maintenance.
