At Reed, Wertz and Roadman, Inc., we know June is more than just the start of summer—it’s the start of a busy season for commercial truckers. Longer daylight hours, increased shipping demands, and crowded highways make this a critical time to focus on safety, compliance, and coverage.
Here’s what your fleet should keep in mind as we head into the summer haul season.
Rising Temps, Rising Risks
Summer heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can pose serious hazards to trucks and drivers alike:
- Tire Blowouts: Hot pavement can cause under-inflated tires to fail. Regular pressure checks are a must.
- Brake Fade: High temperatures affect brake performance—especially on long hauls through mountainous regions.
- Driver Fatigue: Heat can increase exhaustion, especially if cab A/C systems aren’t functioning well.
Insurance Tip: Comprehensive and roadside assistance coverage can help reduce downtime and keep drivers safe in extreme weather conditions.
Road Congestion Increases
With schools out and families hitting the road, expect more distracted driving and sudden traffic changes.
- Plan routes to avoid peak travel areas during holidays and weekends.
- Emphasize following distance in safety training refreshers.
- Double-check cargo securement to prevent shifting loads during sudden braking.
Insurance Tip: Review your liability and cargo coverage to ensure it reflects current fleet size and load types.
Mid-Year FMCSA Check-In
June is the perfect time for a mid-year compliance review:
- Are your CSA scores up to date?
- Have all ELDs been maintained and tested?
- Are driver qualification files current?
Staying proactive with DOT compliance can reduce risks and potential fines—and position you for better insurance rates.
Coverage Review: Are You Growing?
Has your operation grown since January? Whether you’ve added trucks, taken on new contracts, or started hauling different commodities, it’s time to re-evaluate:
- Auto liability
- Physical damage
- Non-trucking liability
- Cargo coverage
- Umbrella/excess liability
At Reed, Wertz and Roadman, Inc., we specialize in trucking—and that means we stay ahead of the unique risks that come with growth.
Thoughts: Drive Smarter This Summer
Whether you’re hauling regionally or long-distance, June is your reminder to prep your fleet for what lies ahead. Safety and insurance go hand in hand—and we’re here to help you protect both your drivers and your business.
Need a coverage check-up or risk review? Call Reed, Wertz and Roadman today. We keep truckers rolling—with protection that goes the distance.