Winter driving with a bus

Winter Equipment and Tires

The bus must have winter tires or chains available from November 1st until Easter over Påskefjellet. In practice, this means:

Chains

• You must be able to install chains on the drive wheels within a reasonable time.
• Chains are used on snow-covered or icy roads where tires alone do not provide enough grip.
• Maximum speed with chains is normally 50 km/h.
• Remove chains when the road is clear to avoid damage to tires and the roadway.

Driving on Slippery Roads

• Increase the distances to the vehicles in front, the braking distance can be up to ten times longer.
• Use engine brake and retarder on downhills instead of the foot brake alone.
• Avoid sudden steering and pedal movements that can trigger skidding.
• Freezing rain and frost can make the road slippery without visible ice.

Passenger safety in winter weather

• The floor of the bus becomes slippery from snow and slush brought in by passengers.
• Be aware that standing passengers are more likely to lose balance during sudden movements.
• Keep bus stops free of ice where possible, or inform passengers about slippery surfaces.
• Adjust acceleration and braking extra smoothly for the passengers’ comfort and safety.

Visibility and lighting

• Remove snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, lights, and roof signs before departure.
• Use the heater and fan to keep the windows clear while driving.
• In darkness and snow, low beams are often better than high beams to avoid glare.

Further reading

• Read about bus evacuation for preparedness in accidents during bad weather.
• See passenger safety for equipment and routines.
• Practice with free theory test for buses.