Video: CHP Escorts Big Rig as It Drifts Down I-80
California is not exactly known for its ice and snow, but winter weather conditions can hit its mountains throughout the season. When snow does fall, it can be particularly problematic on the few stretches of interstate that span over those mountain ranges. As one commercial truck driver found out recently, being unprepared for those conditions can leave you drifting your payload down Interstate 80 with a police escort.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the truck driver's brake lines had frozen in snowy conditions on I-80's pass near Donner Summit. That forced the driver to navigate the mountain with his trailer pitched sideways, 'drifting' through the snow. The slide continues with surprising grace for the entire video, even as the truck looks like it is in the process of actively crashing. Police followed behind as the driver navigated his way out of the situation and nobody was hurt, but it is a scary situation and one worth avoiding if possible.
"Thanks to the driver's skill, we managed to ensure everyone's safety," CHP's Instagram caption says.
The post goes on to remind drivers, particularly of big trucks with trailers, of strategies to prepare for these kinds of conditions. Remember to drive cautiously, check weather conditions in advance, and pack chains if your car does not have winter tires or another way to get traction on snow. That advice is particularly important in California, where few motorists are prepared for weather conditions that may be ordinary in January anywhere else in the country.
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