Driving through the mountains can present a unique challenge for truck drivers, requiring extra caution and preparedness. Whether you are a seasoned driver or new to the road, navigating steep grades requires careful attention to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. We asked our RoadPro Driver’s Lounge Facebook Group for their tips on navigating a steep decline with a heavy load.

Pre-Trip Inspection

Before starting your journey, do a thorough pre-trip inspection. Pay close attention to your service brakes and air tanks, as they are critical for safe mountain driving. Faulty brakes tend to overheat when braking too often, leading to brake fading and reduced effectiveness. Ensure everything is working well to avoid potential issues during your drive.

Fuel Up!

You may drive 100+ miles before coming across a fuel stop. Fuel up before entering mountainous areas to avoid running low or out of fuel. Be prepared for emergencies, long construction zones, and heavy traffic.

Use Lower Gears

Several RoadPro Driver’s Lounge members recommend using lower gear when navigating a steep decline. Driver Todd Daum advises, “If you must use your brakes because you did not downshift to a lower gear or failed to use the proper stage engine brake in time, brake no more than 5 mph. Let off to cool brakes for 3 to 5 seconds, then brake at 5 mph.” Daum recommends, “Repeat until under control, stopped, or emergency ramp used.” He also suggests, “Turn on hazards and go as slow as you are comfortable with. Stay in the right lane and do not worry about who passes you.” Another driver, Mike Baker, shared, “The gear on the way down should be two lower than what you climbed the hill in, and don’t ride the brakes.”

Keep Distance Between Vehicles

While this may sound like common knowledge, it’s even more important to give yourself extra distance while hauling a heavy load on a steep grade. Never tailgate, but do leave double the distance between you and the vehicle in front as you would on a flat road.

Last Resort

Be prepared for curves in the road before you start going down the mountain. If you are unfamiliar with the area, it is important to look ahead or communicate on a CB radio with other truckers to located the runaway truck ramps along the route. In case of an emergency, these ramps provide a safe area to stop your rig if you encounter a brake malfunction.

To join this conversation, and others related to trucking, join the RoadPro Driver’s Lounge on Facebook.