Colorado winters are sometimes hard on drivers. One thing that all motorists have to remember is that there are truckers who come through the state, and some of them aren’t familiar with driving on wintry roads. While it’s up to the truckers to drive safely, it behooves other drivers to take safety precautions around them.

There are many things that you can do to help you reach your destination safely when the roads are snowy or icy. Semitrucks are at an increased risk of problems in these conditions. Because they’re so long, there’s a chance that the trailer could sway, which can cause the trucker to lose control because of the lack of traction.

What steps should you take when driving around semitrucks in the winter?

One of the best things you can do when you’re driving around big rigs is to give them space. These large, heavy vehicles take much longer to stop when the roads are slick. Giving them space in front of their vehicle, behind it and to the side can keep everyone safe.

Remember to give yourself extra time to get to your destination. You may not be able to drive the speed limit, and you have to be careful when you brake or accelerate. Trying to rush on roads covered in snow or ice can lead to wrecks. Ideally, you will increase your following distance to five or six seconds instead of the usual three seconds.

Anyone who’s struck by a semitruck during the winter months must ensure they get the medical care they need for their injuries. When the injuries are catastrophic and require considerable care, the victims might choose to seek compensation. There are strict time limits for this in Colorado, so getting started on the case quickly is imperative. Working with someone who understands these cases can help you immensely.