1. Plan your route – Check weather and road conditions, road closures, and state & federal weather advisements. Stay updated on any advisories or warnings throughout your trip. If your route appears unsafe or you feel uncomfortable, call 5CL immediately so that we can potentially negotiate with FXG linehaul for a route adjustment. Please see Rules section below for additional information to this guideline.

2. Drive for the road conditions – SLOW DOWN. Driving at the speed limit may be legal but is often too fast for snow-covered or icy road conditions. Watch your surroundings, look ahead, and keep a safe buffer zone around your truck whenever possible. Always maintain a safe driving distance (no mater the conditions) and do not travel as part of a pack in bad weather or poor visibility. If the leader of the pack makes an error, chances are high you will too. Finally, you should NOT use jake brakes (engine brakes) on icy or snow-covered roads.

3. Distracted driving – there is never an appropriate time to be using any handheld electronic device while you are driving. This becomes even more critical when driving in adverse weather conditions. If you must use your handheld electronic device, use a hands-free device, or pullover in a SAFE place. The safety of the driver, passengers, and others on the road take precedence over any phone-related activities.

4. Seat belt – compliance with this policy is mandatory, and failure to adhere to seatbelt usage guidelines may result in disciplinary actions.

5. Use good, solid judgement – If the weather is so severe that you need to get off the road, do it. Find a place to get off the road safely, call 5CL, and wait until conditions are safe. Do not try to be a hero. Do the right thing and park if the ‘going gets too rough’. Know your limits. You are not invincible.