Page 11 - Trucker's guide - engelsk

Driving in winter
Vehicles not suited to winter conditions
Some types of vehicles are more suited to Norwe- gian winter roads than others. An incorrectly loaded semitrailer is one example of a vehicle poorly suited to winter conditions. If it is not possible to achieve sufficient road grip using the required number of snow chains, the vehicle must stop and wait for driving conditions to improve.
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration recommends a differential lock as standard equip- ment on the tractor unit’s driving axle. It is easier to climb slippery hills when this is combined with good winter tyres and the use of chains where necessary. Towing vehicles with multiple-axle drive (4x4 or 6x4) will offer the best chance of not getting stuck in most cases .
Convoy traffic
If the weather is so poor that it is unsafe to drive, convoy traffic may be required on some road sections at short notice. If this happens, a number of vehicles are gathered together to form a convoy, and snow ploughs lead the convoy to clear snow from the road. Signs are always provided to indicate when roads
are closed for the winter or are only open for convoy traffic. It is also be a good idea to call the information line (tel. 175) to find out whether the road is open. It is always important to make sure you have enough fuel, warm clothing, food and drink in case you get stuck or have to wait for a convoy.
To avoid such situations, it is quickest and best to take the main roads, even if this involves ferries and passing toll plazas.
Besides convoy traffic, why traffic, some road secti- ons are closed in winter. For a list of which roads are closed or subject to convoy traffic, please see vegvesen.no/en/traffic/planning-your-trip or call 175 (0047 815 48 991 from abroad)
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Trucker’s Guide
Photo: Knut Opeide