Some parts of the country and world have already seen their fair share of unpleasant weather recently. Whether it’s snow, rain, sleet, or a wintry mix, it’s important to stay informed and make appropriate decisions when traveling this winter season. Safety is essential. As we enter the unpredictable winter months, consider how using technology can help you stay safe for the roads ahead.
Consider this: You’re driving along in your semi, transporting XYZ across the Midwest, when all of a sudden you’re in the midst of a fury of freezing rain. You know you shouldn’t continue driving since the roads are now getting slippery and dangerous, but where can you stop and park until the storm passes? Mapping and in-cab navigation technology can help you locate and navigate to nearby Points of Interest (POIs), such as rest areas, truck stops, and parking locations on safe, truck-legal roads. Drivers can also be notified of traffic buildups caused by weather-related accidents and select an alternate route to avoid high-risk areas.
Knowledge is Power: For back office planners, technology is available that allows for real-time weather alerting, notifying dispatchers if planned or future routes will be affected by impending weather conditions. With this insight, decisions can be made to re-route, delay or modify plans to keep drivers safe and customers up-to-date on delivery times.
Technology plays a key role in the transportation industry and provides powerful data insight for better decision making. Using technology to address weather-related issues during the winter is key for operational success. It also ensures we keep our precious commodities safe, the most important being our drivers.
And for everyone traveling on the road this winter, here are some helpful winter driving tips to keep in mind to avoid any surprises in your travels.
Safe travels!