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02/16/2026

CVSA International Roadcheck 2026 Set for May 12–14

Circle the dates—May 12–14 marks the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) annual International Roadcheck. Over these three days, law enforcement agencies across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will conduct inspections of commercial vehicles and drivers to verify regulatory compliance. This year’s driver spotlight is on electronic logging device (ELD) tampering, falsification, and manipulation, while the vehicle emphasis is on proper cargo securement. Motor carriers and drivers should start gearing up now to ensure a smooth, stress free Roadcheck 2026 experience.

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08/14/2025

Driving Tips, Operations
Back to School Driving Safety Tips

Across the country, students are heading back to classroom for the 2025–2026 school year. This seasonal shift means bright yellow buses returning to their routes, children in crosswalks and bike lanes, and increased traffic from parents and young drivers—all requiring extra caution and good back to school driving safety practices from motorists.

To help keep everyone protected during this busy time of year, drivers should prepare for the changes in traffic and congestion with the following back to school driving safety tips:

Respect the Yellow Bus

Know and abide by the laws for sharing the road with school buses, especially:

It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop; red flashing lights and an extended stop sign arm indicate that children are getting on or off the bus.

Traffic in both directions must stop on undivided roadways when students are entering or exiting a school bus. State laws on divided highways vary, but all states require that traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop.

Give children plenty of space to safely enter and exit the bus. Children are at the greatest risk of being hit within ten feet of a school bus. Watch for children arriving late for the bus, as they may dart into the street without checking for traffic.

Remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving.

Follow school buses at a safe distance. Remember that they make frequent stops and must stop at all railroad crossings.

Watch for Pedestrians & Riders

Scan for pedestrians, bicyclists, scooter riders, and skateboarders not only on the street and sidewalk but also emerging from driveways and hidden behind parked cars or other obstructions. Also, note that children may be especially difficult to see behind parked sport-utility vehicles.

Recognize that youngsters can be impulsive. They will often take risks, ignore hazards, and fail to look both ways before crossing the street or running after a ball. Remain vigilant, particularly for children distracted by cell phones, headphones, or friends, and be prepared to stop.

Pay extra attention in school zones and residential areas, as well as near playgrounds and parks. Youngsters can be difficult to see, especially at dawn or dusk or in poor weather when visibility is reduced.

Don’t block a crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn. Forcing youngsters to go around your vehicle puts them in the path of moving traffic. In school zones with blinking warning flashers, stop and yield to pedestrians and bicyclists whether there is a marked crosswalk or not.

Avoid honking the horn or revving your engine when children are in front of your vehicle in a crosswalk. You can startle them and potentially endanger their lives. Wait patiently for youngsters to finish their crossing before you proceed.

Give children riding bikes, scooters, or skateboards a wide berth. If passing, do so slowly and smoothly. If you don’t have sufficient room, do not attempt to pass.

Use your turn signals and allow riders to pass before making a turn. The most common causes of collisions with bicycles are when drivers are turning left in front of an oncoming bicycle or turning right across the path of the bicycle.

Be aware that children riding bikes, scooters or skateboards may swerve, brake suddenly, or even fall. There can also be obstacles on the roadway such as debris or potholes that can be challenging even for experienced riders.

Remember the School Zone Safety Rules

Keep in mind that traffic patterns around school zones may have changed since the last school year. Also remember that children are often outside at various times for recess, lunch and for certain classes, so it's important to remain alert throughout the day to maintain school zone safety.

Abide by the posted speed limit and be prepared to brake. The speed limit in most active school zones is 25 mph; however, local municipalities may change the speed limit to meet community needs. Severe weather may also necessitate lower speeds.

Obey all school zone safety warning signs and instructions from patrol officers and crossing guards. Proceed with caution once the crossing guard returns to the sidewalk and lowers the stop sign.

Slow down around teen drivers who are still developing their skills and judgment behind the wheel. Keep in mind that you may also encounter new school bus drivers who may be adjusting to their routes and vehicles. Stay vigilant and lead by example through safe, responsible driving.

Expect heavy traffic backups near schools, and avoid school zones during peak times, if possible. If you encounter a backup, slow down and be patient. Importantly, stop if there is not enough space to execute your maneuver safely. Also note that some school districts may be staggering schedules due to bus driver shortages. This means that school zones may be active for longer or active at unexpected times.

While sharing the road safely is always important, the start of a new school year calls for heightened awareness in school zones and residential neighborhoods. By following these back to school driving safety tips, drivers can help reduce the risks and ensure safe travel for all.

Article provided by Lancer Insurance

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08/04/2025

Driving Tips for National Traffic Awareness Month

With summer winding down and daily routines shifting toward fall, August is a period of transition on the nation’s roadways. It is also a month associated with a spike in accident rates, underscoring the need for increased driver awareness. That’s why August is designated as National Traffic Awareness Month—a valuable reminder for all drivers to stay focused, remain alert, and be mindful of the unique risks this time of year brings.

One Last Summer Getaway
For many people, August offers a final opportunity to squeeze in a road trip, beach outing, or family vacation before the summer season ends. This travel surge means increased traffic congestion, more drivers preoccupied with getting to their destinations, and an uptick in pedestrians and cyclists in unfamiliar areas—often distracted or unaware of the traffic around them.

Staying alert is vital for commercial motor vehicle drivers, especially near recreational hotspots like parks, beaches, lakes, and scenic routes. In these areas, visitors may make sudden stops, overlook or ignore signage, or drive unpredictably. Pedestrians might step into the streets without warning, assuming drivers will yield. Your vigilance can help reduce risks and ensure safer travel for everyone.

Back-to-School Brings New Hazards
By mid-to-late August, school zones begin buzzing with activity once again. Bright yellow buses return to their routes, kids fill sidewalks and bike lanes, and parents navigate the chaos of drop-off and pick-up routines. Meanwhile, newly licensed teen drivers are making their first independent commutes to school. All this activity adds up to heavier traffic and a higher potential for crashes, particularly during peak school travel hours.

To navigate these challenges safely, remain extra vigilant in and around school zones and residential areas. Slow down, obey posted speed limits, and be prepared to brake. Watch out for children who may dart into the road, forget to look both ways, or get distracted by friends and devices. These early weeks of the school year are a critical time to prioritize caution and patience behind the wheel.

Beat the Heat, Stay Sharp
In August, fatigue can sneak up on even the most seasoned commercial drivers. Long hours behind the wheel, coupled with intense summer heat, can cause dehydration, slower reaction times, and even microsleeps.

Combat heat-related fatigue by prioritizing rest, drinking plenty of water, eating light and nutritious meals, and taking regular breaks. If you begin to feel drowsy, pull over in a safe area and resume driving only once you are fully alert. This is an important message any time—but it’s one that takes center stage during National Traffic Awareness Month.

Impaired Driving Doesn’t Take a Holiday
With Labor Day around the corner, celebrations often kick off well before the holiday weekend. To help keep roads safe, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is again sponsoring its annual “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. From August 15 through September 1, 2025, law enforcement agencies across the country will be stepping up patrols to identify and remove impaired drivers from the road.

As a professional, you understand the dangers of impaired driving. But others may not realize that even a small amount of alcohol can affect their ability to drive safely. Therefore, it’s essential to watch out for other motorists exhibiting signs of impairment such as swerving, inconsistent speeds, failure to signal, or drifting between lanes. If you suspect a driver is under the influence, keep your distance and report it when safe to do so.

Caution in Construction Zones
August is a prime month for road construction and maintenance projects, which can lead to lane closures, detours, and slowdowns.

When navigating work zones, follow warning and directional signs and comply with the instructions of road crew flaggers. Stay at or below the posted work zone speed limit, adjusting your speed to match conditions. Be especially mindful of construction workers and equipment and remain prepared for sudden stops or lane shifts.

National Traffic Awareness Month Encourages Safer Roads
As National Traffic Awareness Month reminds us, August is a critical time to stay alert and prioritize safety on the road. By embracing the spirit of this awareness campaign, professional drivers can set a strong example and help reduce accidents during this busy, transitional period. And while National Traffic Awareness Month highlights these important safety messages, the commitment to vigilant and cautious driving should extend well beyond August—to protect yourself and everyone sharing the road throughout the year.

Article provided by Lancer Ins. co.

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05/30/2025

Brake Safety Week Returns with New Focus Area

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has scheduled this year’s Brake Safety Week for August 24–30. During this annual enforcement initiative, CVSA-certified inspectors across North America will highlight the importance of brake safety by conducting inspections of commercial motor vehicle brake system components.

Throughout Brake Safety Week, vehicles found to have brake-related out-of-service violations will be removed from service until the identified issues are resolved. For 2025, inspectors will pay particular attention to the condition of the brake drum and rotor, which, if found defective, can result in violations and negatively impact a motor carrier’s safety rating.

Last year, CVSA inspectors examined 14,692 commercial vehicles across the U.S. during Brake Safety Week. Of those, 1,900 were placed out of service for brake-related violations—a 12.9% out-of-service rate.

Brake Safety Week is a key component of CVSA’s Operation Airbrake Program, a collaborative effort among the U.S., Canada, and Mexico aimed at improving commercial vehicle brake safety. The program's mission is to reduce accidents caused by faulty braking systems through roadside inspections and education efforts targeted at drivers, mechanics, and fleet operators.

As the 2025 Brake Safety Week approaches, motor carriers and drivers are urged to proactively inspect and service their vehicles’ brake systems. Ensuring brakes are in good working order not only enhances road safety but also helps ensure a smooth inspection experience.

CVSA has created a 2025 Brake Safety Week flyer featuring eight brake drum and rotor tips for drivers/operators to avoid violations. The flyer is available for download in English, French, and Spanish.

Article provided by Lancer Ins co.

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05/04/2025

Best Practices to Minimize Refrigerated Cargo Claims

Refrigeration units (re**ers) play a vital role in the supply chain—not just by moving freight, but by ensuring that time- and temperature-sensitive goods arrive in optimal condition. Incorrect temperatures, humidity levels, or handling can damage product quality and lead to rejected loads, cargo claims, and financial losses.

As outdoor temperatures rise, the challenge grows. Warmer weather increases the strain on refrigeration units, making it even more important for re**er drivers to stay vigilant and proactive to protect cargo integrity.

Here are practical steps re**er drivers can take to help protect perishable goods during transit and reduce the risk of refrigerated cargo claims:

Review the shipper’s instructions and load specifications before starting your trip. Ensure your re**er unit can reach and maintain the required temperature for the goods you will be hauling. Pay attention to any guidelines concerning the co-mingling of products when transporting mixed loads, handling less-than-truckload shipments, or making multiple stops.

Clean and sanitize the trailer according to the shipper’s specifications. Residue, odor, or contaminants from prior loads can pose risks to the integrity of the intended shipment. Thorough cleaning helps prevent cross-contamination, protects against spoilage, and ensures regulatory compliance.

Plan your route carefully. Check traffic conditions and weather forecasts before heading out to minimize delays that could impact the condition of refrigerated cargo. If possible, avoid driving during peak heat hours to reduce stress on the refrigeration unit.

Inspect your vehicle. A pre-trip inspection is federally required and essential for safe driving, but it also helps prevent breakdowns that can cause delays and potential cargo spoilage. Equally important is a pre-trip check of the re**er unit per manufacturer guidelines and a thorough examination of the trailer. Look for and address any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or worn door seals, which could impact the trailer’s insulation and affect temperature control.

Make sure your fuel tanks—particularly the one powering your re**er—are full before arriving for pickup. A full re**er tank not only helps keep the refrigeration unit running without interruption, but many shippers require it to be topped off before they load.

Precool the trailer before loading. Trailer surfaces can retain heat. Precooling removes this residual heat and ensures goods are placed into an environment that meets their temperature requirements right from the start. Schedule enough time to properly precool the trailer to the required temperature before loading begins.

Be sure you understand the required conditions and controls needed to maintain the load quality during transport. Verify that the details on the bill of lading match the actual load, including any special handling instructions.

Check product temperature prior to loading. Refrigeration units are intended to maintain product temperature, not change it. Use a pulp thermometer to verify that the cargo is within the appropriate temperature limits before loading begins. Do not accept any product that is not within the required range. Also confirm that all items are properly packaged and securely sealed. Report any signs of spoilage, damage, or contamination to the shipper immediately in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Use correct loading techniques. Arrange cargo to promote even air circulation throughout the trailer and in compliance with product safety and transportation regulations (e.g., segregation, isolation, contamination prevention). Avoid placing items against the trailer walls, ceiling, or evaporator unit, as doing so can block airflow and create hot spots that may lead to potential spoilage. Secure the load to prevent shifting that could inhibit airflow or cause physical damage during transit. After loading is complete, reconfirm that the refrigeration unit has been set to the correct temperature and operating mode according to the shipper’s instructions.

Monitor in transit. Track cargo and trailer temperatures using onboard monitoring systems and/or remote tracking technology. Address any fluctuations immediately. Also stay alert to any unusual sounds or visible issues that may indicate equipment problems.

Guard against cargo theft. Theft of high-value, temperature-sensitive goods like food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and electronics is on the rise, so it is crucial to stay vigilant. Avoid stopping within the first 200-250 miles to deter thieves from following you. If you must park a loaded trailer, choose well-lit, high-traffic areas with surveillance cameras or on-site security whenever possible. Back the trailer tightly against a solid structure—such as a building, fence, or another trailer—to restrict access to the rear doors and deter tampering.

Have a contingency plan. Even with careful planning, breakdowns can happen. Keep contact information for mobile service providers and repair facilities handy and have a backup plan for transferring cargo to another re**er, if needed. Coordinate with dispatch to resolve issues quickly. Carrying basic repair tools and spare parts can be beneficial for minor fixes.

Be thorough at delivery. Keep trailer doors closed until unloading is ready to begin to minimize temperature loss. Also ensure product temperatures are checked and documented on the bill of lading or delivery receipt to help prevent disputes and protect against refrigerated cargo claims.

Maintain comprehensive records for every load. These records are crucial for compliance with regulations from federal agencies like the Food and Drug Administration, Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Transportation. Complete and accurate documentation is also vital in reducing the risk of refrigerated cargo rejection or legal issues.

Warmer weather can make refrigerated transportation more challenging, but by following best practices, re**er drivers can protect product integrity, reduce the risk of refrigerated cargo claims, and ensure high-quality deliveries.

Article provided by Lancer Insurance Co.

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03/20/2025

Driving Tips, Operations
Potholes Ahead: Tips to Avoid Them

Spring is synonymous with warmer temperatures, blossoming flowers, and fun outdoor activities. Yet, the season also brings an all-too-familiar problem: potholes. While these road cavities can form at any point, potholes are especially prevalent this time of year.

What Causes Potholes?

Potholes form when water enters cracks in the road during wet weather. As temperatures fluctuate, the water expands and contracts, weakening the pavement. The problem worsens in winter due to the freeze-thaw cycle. Passing vehicles further damage the road surface, causing it to break apart and form depressions that eventually develop into potholes.

What are the Hidden Hazards of Potholes?

Potholes vary in size, from small, shallow dips to large, deep craters. These road imperfections pose risks ranging from minor annoyances to serious hazards. They can scatter gravel and stones, increasing the chance of cracked windshields and vehicle body damage. Striking a pothole may cause tire blowouts, bent rims, or misaligned wheels. The impact can also damage suspension systems or axles, leading to costly repairs. Even more dangerously, hitting a pothole can cause drivers to lose vehicle control, and attempting to avoid it by swerving may lead to overcorrection or veering into another lane, heightening the likelihood of an accident.

What Can Drivers Do to Minimize the Hazards of Potholes?

While it is impossible to eliminate potholes entirely from the nation's roadways, there are actions you can take to reduce or prevent the hazards they pose:

Maintain tires at the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Tires that are overinflated or underinflated do not have the flexibility needed to safely absorb the shock of hitting a pothole. Properly inflated tires help soften the impact, lowering the risk of both vehicle damage and loss of control.

Stay on top of vehicle maintenance. Regular vehicle care helps ensure critical components, like suspension systems and tires, are in optimal condition to navigate rough roads. Also, keeping your headlights and windshield clean is essential, as dirt, grime, or streaks can impair your visibility, making it harder to spot potholes or other dangerous road conditions.

Complete pre- and post-trip inspections in accordance with federal regulations. These assessments enable you to detect pothole-related damage early, minimizing expensive repairs while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Store loose items inside the vehicle. Unsecured objects can become dangerous projectiles after hitting a pothole. They may also slide under the pedals, hindering your ability to brake or accelerate safely.

Buckle up. A seat belt keeps you securely in your seat during the jarring impact of potholes, reducing the risk of injury or worse. It also helps you remain in the proper position to maintain control of the vehicle during these sudden jolts.

Minimize distractions. It can take less than second of distraction to prevent you from spotting a pothole in your path. Keep your focus on the task of driving by refraining from activities such as talking on the phone, eating, changing radio stations, or reaching for items in the vehicle.

Scan ahead. Keep your eyes moving and look well beyond the vehicle(s) immediately in front of you. This process will allow you time to prepare for road defects rather than simply react to them. Also, be attentive to the movements of other vehicles, as sudden swerving or braking may indicate the presence of a pothole or other road hazard.

Keep a safe following distance. A generous gap between vehicles improves your ability to see potholes, giving you extra time to safely adjust your lane positioning and navigate around them. Moreover, a safe following distance lessens the risk of vehicle damage from flying debris or a potential collision if another driver suddenly swerves or brakes to avoid a pothole.

Watch for puddles. What seems like a harmless puddle on the road may conceal a deep pothole. Whenever possible, avoid driving through puddles.

Slow down when visibility is limited. Reduced visibility can make it harder to spot potholes in advance. Lowering your speed at night or during harsh weather gives you more time to react.

Report hazardous potholes. If you encounter a dangerous pothole, alert authorities as soon as possible. Reporting it can speed up the repair process, improving road safety for all drivers.

What to Do If You Can't Avoid a Pothole

If you cannot avoid a pothole safely:

Slow down before reaching it—do not brake while driving over the pothole.

Approach the pothole head-on to reduce the risk of tire and suspension damage.

Grip the steering wheel firmly as you pass over the pothole to maintain control.

If you hit a pothole and suspect damage:

Pull over to a legal location when it is safe to do so to inspect your vehicle.

Remain alert for unusual sounds, vibrations, or changes in the vehicle’s handling while driving, as these may indicate issues.

Follow your company's procedures for reporting any issues so that repairs can be made promptly.

Potholes are a frequent problem in the spring, but with extra caution, you can minimize the dangers. By maintaining your vehicle, staying vigilant, and using proper driving techniques, you can help protect your vehicle and decrease the likelihood of accidents, even when the roads are far from ideal.

Article Provided by Lancer Ins. co.

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02/28/2025

SPRING TIME CHANGE POSES RISKS TO DRIVERS.....

As the calendar inches along, another seasonal tradition approaches: the spring time change. On Sunday, March 9, at 2:00 AM, clocks across the country will make their annual leap forward, signaling the start of longer days and shorter nights. While the one-hour shift in time may seem like an insignificant change, it can cause sleep disruptions for many people and pose serious risks to motorists across the U.S.

A 2020 study from the University of Colorado Boulder reveals that fatal vehicular crashes rise by 6% in the week after the spring time change, causing approximately 28 additional deaths annually. Those residing farther west within their time zone face a higher risk, with a spike of over 8% in fatal accidents among individuals living on the time zone’s western edge due to the delayed sunrise. The study suggests that these findings may underestimate the true risk increase as only severe car accidents were examined. It attributes the heightened risk to two factors: changes in visibility during early hours of the day and disruption to the body's circadian rhythm caused by the abrupt time shift.

Adjusting to Daylight Saving Time

How the spring time change actually affects you depends on your own personal health, sleep habits, and lifestyle, but there are things you can do to help your body deal with the switch to daylight saving time:

Give yourself a jump start in adjusting to the spring time change. In the days leading up to the spring time change, try going to bed and waking up a bit earlier than usual to prepare your body for the hour you will lose.

Avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages after lunchtime, especially a few days before and after the spring time change, as they can affect wakefulness. Alcohol also prohibits the body from getting quality sleep.

Expose yourself to lots of bright light during the waking hours as much as possible to help your body know it is time to be alert.

Practice good sleep hygiene by taking time to relax and unwind before bedtime; keeping your room cool, quiet and dark; exercising regularly (allow at least two hours between any exercise and bedtime); and, putting away your electronic devices and avoiding large meals within two to three hours before bedtime, to name a few.

Springing Forward with Safety

To help mitigate the dangers on the road associated with the spring time change, drivers should consider the following precautions:

Ensure your vehicle’s headlights, taillights, signals, and auxiliary lights are clean and in good working order. Make sure headlights are properly aligned, windows are cleaned, and mirrors are adjusted for optimal visibility. If you wear glasses, give them a good cleaning too before driving.

Eliminate distractions to help keep your focus on the task of driving. Finish eating, secure and store away all loose items, and adjust the vehicle’s systems and controls before heading out.

Adjust to the new low-light environment in the early hours of the day by reducing your speed and increasing your following distance. Doing so will allow you more time to distinguish objects, spot pedestrians, and judge distances and speeds of other vehicles, and react to them.

Keep a keen eye out for pedestrians, bicyclists and scooter riders. Approach intersections and crosswalks with care, particularly in the darker early morning hours. Children can be difficult to see, so pay extra attention in school zones and residential areas, as well as near playgrounds and parks.

Be prepared for sun glare during the evening rush hours. Wear quality sunglasses with polarized lenses and UV protection to help reduce the glare and eye fatigue. Lower the vehicle’s sun visors to help block some of the reflected light.

Remain aware of how your body adjusts to the spring time change in the first few weeks after the clocks are reset, and do all you can to combat fatigue while on the road. Exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet, including a nutritional breakfast daily. Ensure your vehicle is well ventilated, and take breaks every two to three hours to walk around, stretch and get fresh air. Use medications with care, and don’t rely on caffeine as a substitute for sleep. Get seven to nine hours of restful sleep every day, and avoid driving during a body’s down time, whenever possible.

While there is no “magic formula” for adjusting to the spring time change, the responsibility for safe driving rests upon your shoulders. Avoid becoming part of the statistics by staying vigilant, keeping your speed in check, and maintaining plenty of space around your vehicle. And remember, while you may be doing all you can to mitigate the dangers associated with the spring time change, you’ll be surrounded by other drivers who are not. Buckle up and drive defensively!

Article Provided by Lancer Insurance co.

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12/04/2024

Driving Tips, Severe Weather
Maintain Traction This Winter

When it comes to traction, winter snow and ice present a notable change from what you face on the road the rest of the year. Once your vehicle begins to lose traction, several things can happen, including loss of stopping ability and skidding. Here are some valuable pointers to help you maintain traction and keep your vehicle safely under control:

Check the forecast before departing and frequently along the way. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare for hazardous conditions, plan safer routes, and allows you to manage your driving hours more effectively. If severe weather is expected, think about postponing your trip, if possible, to avoid unnecessary risks.

Get a grip. Make sure you have ample tread to ensure good traction and stopping capability. Check tire pressures frequently during winter weather and add air, as needed, to keep them at recommended levels of inflation. Properly inflated tires help maintain traction on slippery surfaces. Also, know the chain requirements in the states where you will be driving, and be prepared with the proper equipment should the need arise.

Keep your vehicle in the best possible driving condition. Perform a pre-trip inspection as required by federal regulations. In addition to the tires, the lights, brakes, windshield wipers, defroster and radiator are especially important for overall safety during winter driving.

Slow down, even if the roads have been salted or sanded. Many accidents occur because drivers are going too fast for conditions. Slower speeds will help you maintain traction on ice and snow and give you more time to react to hazards. Be extremely cautious until you can determine how much traction to expect from your tires.

Stay alert for changes in a road's surface that may affect traction. Remember that ice and snow are most dangerous when the temperature is at or near the freezing mark. Watch for patches of black ice, snow drifts, or slush that can quickly compromise traction.

Pay attention to your surroundings. Every city block and highway mile may be different, depending on sun or shade and the road’s surface. To anticipate situations, look well ahead—12-15 seconds ahead minimally and up to 20-30 seconds, if possible. Focus on bridges, overpasses, intersections, and wherever water may run across the roadway. These areas are often the first to lose traction. Watch for vehicles having problems with conditions and assume other drivers may do something unexpected.

Keep a cushion of space around your vehicle. Doing so provides the extra margin of safety you need if you begin to skid or must stop. Many needless crashes occur on icy streets because drivers fail to leave sufficient space. A proper buffer also allows you to make adjustments that help maintain traction.

Avoid excessive actions while steering, braking, or accelerating. Wet roads can double the stopping distance, and it will be more difficult to turn without skidding. Apply the brakes early and gently, and steer smoothly to help keep your tires’ grip and maintain traction, reducing the chances of losing control.

Watch out when traveling on slick, banked curves. The vehicle might slide sideways into opposing traffic or off the road. Slow to a safe speed before entering the curve, and shift to a gear that will let you accelerate slightly in the curve, helping maintain traction and control.

Try to keep your vehicle moving in deep snow and on ice, even if it means just crawling along. Once you stop, your chances of getting going again are reduced. However, be careful not to build up too much momentum as your stopping power is also reduced.

Steer into the skid to regain control of your vehicle. If your vehicle begins to skid, turn your steering wheel in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can worsen the skid. Instead, keep your movements smooth and controlled to restore traction.

Use common sense. If conditions become too dangerous, discontinue driving until it’s safe to proceed, as per federal regulations (49 CFR §392.14). Pull over to a safe and legal location and stay in contact with your company dispatch for assistance.

Article provided by Lancer Insurance Co.

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33483

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