What precaution should be taken on slippery roads with heavy trucks?

On slippery roads, especially when driving heavy trucks, it is crucial to turn off the retarder. The retarder, while helpful in generating braking force under normal conditions, can cause the wheels to skid on low-friction surfaces. When a vehicle begins to skid, it may lose traction, and the driver could have diminished control of the truck. By turning off the retarder, a driver can rely on the regular braking system, allowing for smoother and more controlled deceleration. This approach enhances safety by reducing the risk of skidding and maintaining traction on slick surfaces.

Maintaining higher speeds is dangerous on slippery roads, as it decreases reaction time and increases stopping distances. Similarly, using engine brakes or applying brakes aggressively can lead to a loss of control because sudden changes in speed can disrupt traction. Therefore, turning off the retarder is the most prudent precaution to take in slippery conditions.