OTR: How to cope with the changing seasons as a trucker

Truck drivers face many challenges in their roles, not least of which are seasonal changes that impact weather and road conditions. While they cannot control Mother Nature, truck drivers and their managers can prepare for seasonal changes by taking a proactive approach to things like vehicle maintenance and safety training. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), nearly 21% of vehicle crashes are weather-related, with rain contributing to 70% of these incidents.

Here, we’re outlining some of the toughest interferences that changes in weather can bring to roadways and how truck drivers can stay safe and maintain efficiency.

Seasonal challenges long-haul drivers are often up against

Each season brings about unique challenges, not only in temperature or by way of rain or snow, but less obvious hindrances too, like daylight and erosion. So, before we explore coping strategies, let’s break down common obstacles by season.

Winter OTR driving 

Contrary to what many might think, fatal winter road accidents are less common than in summer months. Still, frigid temperatures and ice during the colder times of the year bring about some of the most unpredictable and dangerous road conditions, such as:

• Snow and ice: Slippery roads cause reduced traction — especially without the proper tires on your vehicle.
• Low visibility: Blowing snow causes poor visibility everywhere, but it can get particularly troublesome on vast, vacant swaths of highway.

Spring season for truckers

“Rain, rain go away…” is a phrase the spring season knows all too well. This season brings rain — and lots of it — depending on which part of the country you’re in or traveling through:

• Heavy rain and flooding: Spring often brings heavy rain, which can lead to slick roads and flooded routes, increasing the risk of hydroplaning.
• Potholes: The freeze-thaw cycle of winter can create potholes that damage tires and suspension systems.

OTR trucking in the summer months

Summertime is many people’s favorite time of year. However, high temperatures can cause all sorts of problems on the road:

• High temperatures: Extreme heat can cause tire blowouts, engine overheating, and increased wear on vehicle mechanical components.
• Sun glare: Extended daylight hours can lead to significant sun glare that reduces visibility.
• Heat exhaustion: If the AC in a truck isn’t working probably, drivers can overheat and may suffer heat exhaustion while behind the wheel. 

Fall driving for the trucking industry

The most limiting thing about the fall season is how short the days feel. It’s dark in the morning and dark again in the late afternoon. Shorter-feeling days mean more time spent driving in the dark, which can affect visibility and driver alertness — since darkness inherently makes us more sleepy.

Even with each season’s difficulties and dangers, fleet managers can equip drivers with the know-how and tools they need to stay safe no matter the conditions.

Preparing fleet vehicles for different seasons

Before diving into the support side of things, let’s get the technical stuff out of the way. During each season, particular aspects of drivers’ trucks should be checked and double-checked. There are also tools and supplies that drivers should keep in their cabs to handle various conditions while driving.

Let’s go season by season:

Download our handy trucking checklist for every season

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Truck checklist for winter season

From tires to fluids, here are several important items to check before heading out on ice-covered roads:

• Winter tires: Install winter or all-season tires that provide better traction in snow and ice.
• Tire chains: Carry tire chains, especially if traveling through mountainous regions where they may be required by law.
• Battery health: Cold weather can reduce battery efficiency. Test the battery beforehand and replace it if necessary.
• Antifreeze/coolant: Check antifreeze levels to prevent the engine from freezing.
• Heater functionality: Ensure the heating system works efficiently to keep the cabin warm.
• Defrosters: Verify that both front and rear defrosters are operational for clear visibility.

Truck checklist for spring driving

Winter conditions can cause minor damage to vehicles that could become a problem later if not addressed. While transitioning to spring, here are a few things to check (and pack):

• Windshield inspection: After winter, inspect your windshield for any cracks or chips caused by ice or road debris. Repair any damage before it worsens.
• Wiper blades: Replace worn-out wiper blades that may have been damaged by winter conditions. You’ll need reliable wipers to handle spring rainstorms.
• Oil change: Spring is a great time for an oil change, especially if you’ve been using winter-grade oil.
• Brake inspection: Winter driving can take a toll on brakes. Check for wear and rust, and ensure that brake pads and rotors are in good working order.
• Raincoat or poncho: Spring weather often brings heavy rain, so pack a waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry when working outside.
• Reflective gear: Rainy and foggy conditions reduce visibility. Keep reflective vests or jackets on hand for safety when outside the truck.

Truck checklist for summertime

For summer driving, focusing on staying cool and hydrated is the most important checklist item:

• Air conditioning: Test the A/C to ensure it’s working well for comfort during long, hot drives.
• Water and hydration: Keep plenty of water on board. Hydration is critical when transporting a load in high temperatures.
• Sun protection: Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against sun exposure.
• Fire extinguisher: Ensure a fire extinguisher is easily accessible since there are higher fire risks in the heat.

Truck checklist for driving in the fall

For fall, long-haul truck drivers need to be prepared for changing temperatures, wet roads, and unpredictable weather conditions:

• Truck lights: Check all lights (headlights, taillights, and signals) to ensure maximum visibility during shorter days and foggy settings.
• Flashlight: A good flashlight with extra batteries is important for roadside assistance in darker, early evenings.

These practical tips aren’t the only way to stay safe on the road throughout the year. Fleet managers can and should provide ancillary support to help drivers stay safe and productive no matter the season.

Supporting drivers throughout all seasons and road conditions

From training to technology, the following three support strategies—in addition to the above—can help your drivers stay prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws at them:

1. Driver safety training

Regular safety training can help drivers stay abreast of best practices for different conditions. For example, reviewing weather-specific training material teaches drivers how to navigate extreme conditions with caution, such as icy roads, high winds, or low visibility in heavy rain or snow.

Providing review material is a great first step, but if you’re looking for something more interactive, consider simulation training. Drivers can practice handling vehicles in various extreme weather scenarios in a safe, simulated environment so they can feel confident and prepared for the real thing.

2. Preventive maintenance in OTR trucking

Preventive maintenance programs have one goal: to amend minor issues before they become major problems. After each and every season, conduct thorough inspections to address weather-specific concerns. For example, check tire tread depth for winter, ensure coolant levels are adequate for summer, and inspect heating or air conditioning systems.

3. Mobile apps for truckers

When weather creates stressful scenarios for drivers, they shouldn’t have to worry about anything else but the road. That’s where mobile fleet apps come in handy, such as:

• WEX CardControl
• EFS CarrierControl
• Fleet One CarrierControl
• CAT Scale Mobile

These apps not only simplify and streamline operations, and increase mobility and flexibility, they also provide the peace of mind necessary for drivers to focus on the road ahead. From large fleets to small businesses, don’t let spring showers rain on your drivers’ parade. Instead, provide the tools that can help them wipe away the raindrops and gain clarity.

Let your drivers focus on the road ahead and leave everything else to WEX

As a fleet manager, you have the power to take weight off your driver’s shoulders—and your own! But you don’t have to lift everything yourself.

Explore all the ways WEX makes managing your fleet business easier so you can offer your drivers tools and training to deliver exceptional service no matter what the weather outside looks like.

WEX is a leading, global fintech solutions provider, simplifying payments and back-end business processes in the fleet management, benefits management, and corporate payments areas. To learn more, please visit the company’s About WEX page.

Learn more on how to better manage your over-the-road fleet:

• Fuel card FAQs
• Fraud prevention
• Safety tips
• Tax prep

Apply for a fleet card today!

Resources:
Federal Highway Administration