As the weather gets warmer, fleet drivers can relax a little – you won’t have to worry much about driving in snowy or freezing conditions. Driving during the summer is often times much easier than driving during the winter, but there are still some precautions that our fleet fuel card company recommends.
Rain
Summertime is known for its thunderstorms, and roads can be slick during a downpour. Take extra caution when it first starts to rain, because that’s the time when all of the oils in the road rise to the surface and make it extra-slippery to drive on. Also make sure your wiper blades are clean and working well so you can see everything that’s going on around you. If they’re skipping or leaving streak marks, replace them.
Fog
If you encounter fog, don’t try to see through it by turning on your high beams. Bright light will only reflect off of the fog, so use your low beams and fog lights (if you have them). Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you and pay attention to your speed – driving through fog can create the illusion that you’re moving slowly.
Radiator Coolant
Before you leave for a route, make sure your radiator coolant is at the proper level. Coolant prevents your engine from overheating, which is bad for the car and could leave you stranded on the side of the road.
Be Aware
Because it’s summertime, you’ll find many more pedestrians out for a walk and bicyclists and motorcyclists out for a nice ride. These people can be difficult to spot (especially if you’re driving a large truck), so check your rear-view mirrors frequently and always be aware of what’s around you.
Gas
When it’s hot outside, the last thing you want to do is wait in line to pay for your gas. With a fleet fuel card from Fuel Express, you can simply pull up to the pump, swipe your fleet fuel card, fill up, and get back in your air-conditioned vehicle – quickly.
