Back to Topics

Winter Weather Driving

Transportation | 10-15 min

Summary

Winter weather dramatically increases driving hazards, with snow, ice, reduced visibility, and cold-related mechanical issues all contributing to accidents. According to the Federal Highway Administration, over 70% of the nation's roads are in regions that receive more than 5 inches of annual snowfall, and winter weather contributes to approximately 1,300 deaths and 116,000 injuries annually on U.S. roads. Workers who drive as part of their job face these hazards regularly during winter months.

Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.

Start your 7-day free trial

Key Points to Cover

  • Winter conditions dramatically increase stopping distance and skid risk
  • Prepare vehicles with winter tires and emergency supplies
  • Clear all snow and ice from the vehicle before driving
  • Reduce speed and increase following distance on snow and ice
  • Know when to stop driving and wait for conditions to improve

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should this safety talk take?

Plan for about 10-15 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.

Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?

Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.

Related Topics