As the winter winds down and the snow and ice dissipate, long haul drivers can look forward to the better weather that springtime brings. However, as the changes appear, staying safe is still the most important element. Spring brings sunshine, but it also brings torrential rains and unusual wind patterns, both of which create a substantial risk for everyone.
Nice weather leads to more speeding tickets and an increase in accidents as drivers feel more comfortable driving faster. The United States and Canada are huge landmasses, so the weather may vary drastically throughout your journey.
Be Prepared: Check the Weather
While springtime usually brings milder weather, always check the weather along your route as you prepare for your trip. Rainy weather, freak snowstorms, flooding, larger puddles, and more can all occur during the spring.
Be aware of your environment and have an alternate plan in place to help ensure your safety.
Stay Prepared: Check Your Equipment
The first step before any long haul journey is to check the wear and functionality of your equipment and safety gear. Check your tires, service the equipment, pack for various weather conditions, and make sure you are well-rested before leaving.
Your windshield wipers are one of the most important elements during your trip. Check them carefully and replace them if they are worn to make sure you are prepared.
Consider investing in high-quality, effective sunglasses. The glare from the increased sunshine can blind you without extra protection, so be safe.
Be Alert, Obey the Laws, and Watch for Pedestrians and Animals
As the weather warms, both people and animals begin to appear in greater numbers. The likelihood of unfortunate accidents increases each day as greater numbers are on the roads and highways. Therefore, you want to stay watchful and alert whenever you are behind the wheel.
Slow down and always be prepared, especially at night, early morning, and later evening, when animal crossings are most likely. Be ready to slow or even stop quickly if an animal begins to cross the road.
Construction Begins in the Spring
Prepare to encounter work zones as you travel. Spring is the season to begin repairing the road damage caused by winter traffic. Expect delays and other slowdowns throughout the journey. Monitor these with your GPS and, if possible, travel during off-peak hours, avoiding rush hours.
Pay attention to the signs and flaggers and always leave lots of space between your truck and the vehicle ahead.
Slow Down on Wet Pavement
As rain and wet surfaces are more likely in the springtime, slow down. According to AAA, more than 1.2 million accidents occur each year due to wet pavement. Limited visibility and reduced traction demand that drivers keep a greater following distance, drive slower, and turn lights on during these weather conditions.
Check Out Classic Transport
Classic Transport offers prospective drivers unique and flexible career options through their driveaway, towaway, and multi-haul divisions. Qualified drivers have flexibility in their schedules, enjoy competitive compensation and benefits, and participate in a safe driving program with incentives at various mileage levels.
Drive as much as you want, when you want.
With lots in Goshen and Elkhart, Indiana, Classic Transport is centrally located to reach any point in the United States and Canada.
The qualifications for drivers, equipment, and their safety programs are shown on Classic Transport’s website.
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