This winter looks like it will be headed for the record books already: All 50 states have had snowfall, including Florida, and we still have two months to go until Spring. Here in the Denver metro, the temp is hovering around freezing, which feels almost tropical after the sub-zero temperatures we had last week. Don’t be fooled though; if you’re out on the roads, conditions still could be icy. In fact, recently a semi pulling a cattle trailer (empty, fortunately) skidded off the road in northeastern Colorado, landing in an irrigation ditch. The driver and his dog had to be rescued when the cab flooded with icy water.

Here are a few tips for Heavy Bulk Last Mile and Middle Mile Delivery professionals (and all drivers!) on navigating winter road conditions and making sure your vehicle is ready for anything:

Ice, Ice, Baby!

• Ice forms at 32 degrees, right? Yes, but icy conditions are possible starting at 40 degrees, especially on elevated surfaces subject to wind. 
• Seeing is believing. Visible white ice is snow that has been compacted and slightly melted, then frozen.
• What you can’t see can hurt you. Invisible black ice is clear water that has frozen on black pavement, usually found below overpasses, on bridges, and in areas near a source of water. You usually can’t see black ice until your vehicle is already on it. Don’t hit the brakes, and try to keep the steering wheel straight.
• No ice, no problem? Not always. Wet road conditions that cause hydroplaning can be as dangerous as icy conditions. If your tires lose all traction with the road, you’ll generally be able to ride out a hydroplaning event until you reach a drier section of the road.

Is your vehicle ready to weather the weather?

• Cold does not play nicely with batteries. When temps drop, so does battery power. Check your battery for sufficient voltage and tighten battery cable connections. For EVs, the significant drop in driving range can be a challenge and require careful route planning.
• Frozen! If coolant freezes, it will expand, which can potentially damage your vehicle’s engine block. Use cold weather antifreeze and check the cooling system for leaks.
• Get pumped. Lower temps mean lower tire pressure, so check your pressure regularly to ensure optimum performance. Replace worn tires to ensure good traction in icy conditions.
•  All clear. High-performance windshield wipers, de-icer windshield washer fluid, and a working defroster are must-haves for winter driving.

Stay safe and warm on the roads this winter!

Renee Paul is vice president of BizCHOICE Transportation, a division of Specialty Program Group, LLC. Renee has been instrumental in creating contract carrier insurance programs for the Heavy Bulk Last Mile Delivery segment of the transportation industry. She also has experience integrating a variety of technology solutions with insurance offerings to promote safety and compliance across transportation networks and logistics companies. Renee earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Business Management and Administration from Humboldt State University, and is a licensed broker in Accident, Life and Health, Property and Casualty and Surplus Lines.