Why Dedicated Transportation Systems Are Essential for Efficient Goods Hauling

In the fast-paced world of logistics and supply chain management, businesses face the constant challenge of ensuring efficient transportation of goods. One solution that is gaining traction is dedicated transportation systems. This article explores the reasons why dedicated transportation systems are crucial for businesses looking to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.

Understanding Dedicated Transportation Systems

Dedicated transportation systems involve the exclusive use of transportation resources (such as trucks, drivers, and equipment) by a single company or client. Unlike other models, dedicated transportation ensures a customized service that aligns closely with the business’s specific needs and requirements, rather than pooling resources and sharing them with multiple other organizations.

Benefits of Dedicated Transportation Systems

1. Reliability and Consistency

One of the primary advantages of dedicated transportation systems is reliability. By having dedicated assets at their disposal, businesses can depend on consistent service levels and reliable delivery schedules. This reliability is crucial for industries where punctuality and predictability are essential, such as retail, manufacturing, and healthcare.

2. Enhanced Control and Visibility

Dedicated transportation systems provide businesses with greater control over their supply chain operations. Companies can optimize routes, manage inventory more effectively, and respond promptly to changes in demand or unexpected disruptions. Real-time visibility into shipment status and performance metrics enables proactive decision-making and improves overall operational efficiency.

3. Cost Effect Options

While dedicated transportation systems may involve higher initial costs compared to shared transportation models, they often result in long-term cost savings. Businesses can avoid expenses associated with delays, damaged goods, and inefficient use of resources. By optimizing routes and reducing empty miles, dedicated transportation systems help minimize fuel costs and lower the environmental impact of transportation operations.

4. Flexibility and Scalability

Scalability is another significant advantage of dedicated transportation systems. Businesses can adjust the size and capacity of their dedicated fleet according to fluctuating demand levels, seasonal variations, or expansion into new markets. This flexibility allows companies to adapt quickly to changing business conditions without being constrained by shared resources or external factors.

Embracing the Benefits of Dedicated Transportation Systems

Dedicated transportation systems offer a strategic advantage for businesses seeking to optimize their logistics operations and achieve greater efficiency. By prioritizing reliability, control, cost efficiency, and scalability, companies can enhance their supply chain performance and deliver exceptional service to customers.

 

As industries evolve and competition intensifies, the adoption of dedicated transportation systems becomes increasingly relevant. Businesses that leverage dedicated transportation systems not only improve operational outcomes but also position themselves for sustained growth and success in a dynamic marketplace.

Is Dedicated Contract Carriage Right for Your Company?

In the realm of logistics and transportation, finding the most efficient and cost-effective methods for moving goods is crucial for businesses of all sizes. One option that has gained traction in recent years is dedicated contract carriage (DCC). This model offers companies a unique approach to managing their transportation needs, but is it the right fit for your business? Let’s delve into what dedicated contract carriage entails and explore its potential benefits and considerations.

What is Dedicated Contract Carriage?

Dedicated contract carriage is a transportation arrangement in which a shipper contracts with a carrier for dedicated transportation services. Unlike common carriage or spot market arrangements, where carriers handle multiple shippers’ goods and operate on a transactional basis, DCC involves a long-term, exclusive relationship between the shipper and carrier. The carrier provides dedicated equipment, drivers, and services tailored specifically to the shipper’s needs.

Benefits of Dedicated Contract Carriage

  1. Cost Efficiency: Dedicated contract carriage can lead to cost savings through optimized route planning, reduced empty miles, and better fleet utilization. By dedicating resources to one shipper, carriers can streamline operations and improve efficiency.
  2. Reliability and Service Quality: With dedicated resources and a committed service agreement, DCC often provides higher reliability and service quality compared to common carriage. This can be particularly advantageous for companies with stringent delivery requirements or complex logistics networks.
  3. Risk Management: Dedicated contract carriage offers greater control and oversight compared to relying on multiple carriers or the spot market. This can help mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, and fluctuating market conditions.
  4. Customization: Dedicated contract carriage arrangements are tailored to the specific needs of the shipper, allowing for customized transportation solutions that align with operational strategies and customer demands.

Considerations Before Opting for DCC

  1. Initial Investment: Implementing a DCC strategy may require upfront investments in infrastructure, technology, or fleet expansion, depending on current capabilities and requirements.
  2. Contractual Commitment: Dedicated contract carriage involves entering into long-term contracts with carriers, which may require careful negotiation and consideration of terms and conditions.
  3. Operational Integration: Seamless integration between the shipper’s operations and the carrier’s services is essential for maximizing the benefits of DCC. This may necessitate coordination and collaboration between both parties.

Is Dedicated Contract Carriage Right for Your Company?

Determining whether dedicated contract carriage is suitable for your business depends on various factors.

  • Volume and Frequency: Companies with consistent shipping volumes and predictable transportation needs are likely to benefit most from DCC.
  • Complexity of Operations: Businesses with complex supply chains, specialized delivery requirements, or a need for reliable service may find DCC advantageous.
  • Cost Considerations: Assessing the potential cost savings and efficiency gains compared to existing transportation methods is crucial in evaluating the feasibility of DCC.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business 

Dedicated contract carriage offers compelling advantages in terms of cost efficiency, reliability, and customization for companies with stable shipping volumes and specific operational needs. However, it requires careful evaluation of costs, operational integration, and contractual commitments before implementation.

If you’re considering adopting dedicated contract carriage for your transportation needs, consult with logistics experts and carriers to assess how DCC can align with your company’s strategic goals and operational requirements. By making an informed decision, you can leverage DCC to enhance your logistics capabilities and drive business success.

Remember, finding the right transportation solution is key to optimizing your supply chain and maintaining competitiveness in today’s busy market environment.

Mark Babick: From Air Force to Road Safety Expert

Mark Babick, currently in the role of Field Safety position at Lily Transportation, had a
fascinating career path marked by his service and achievements. He dedicated seven
years to the United States Air Force with deployments in various locations like Turkey,
United States, South Korea and Germany. While serving he specialized in air
transportation and HazMAt operations. This picture from May 1999 captures Mark
deployed in Osan AB, South Korea. In the background is a C-5B Galaxy.
Following his military service, Mark transitioned into the trucking industry where his
career began. Post – military life Mark hit the road and began his successful career in
the trucking industry by starting out as a truck driver. He accomplished an impressive
milestone with over 2 million miles driven with his CDL A license. His accomplishments
on the road showcase his dedication and skill.He was even able to show off his talents
by driving on a competitive level by participating in state truck driving championships,
clinching second place as his highest accolade. After some time is when he started to
transition from driving to safety management.
Mark leveraged his extensive road experience to excel in safety management. He
initially assumed a safety management role for a large trucking company. Currently he
has a role in the safety department at Lily Transportation. He is able to use his
operational expertise and knowledge to make sure that Lily is the safest it could be and
meet all of the DOT regulations.
Mark is not only a proud veteran but also a dedicated professional excelling in his
current career. His contributions to safety and his commitment to his job are not to go
unnoticed.

Thank you Mark for your service and bravery!

LILY TRANSPORTATION LLC PARTNERS WITH THE U.S. MARINE CORPS RESERVE TOYS FOR TOTS PROGRAM TO BRING THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS TO CHILDREN

NEEDHAM, MA, December 13, 2023 — Over 2500 toys collected by Lily Transportation locations over the last three months for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program were delivered to local Toys for Tots centers throughout the country for distribution during the holidays to less fortunate children in the community. Valerie St. John, Director of Compliance & Driver Retention who coordinated the effort for Lily, said this is the fifth year the company has brought the joy of Christmas to children, collecting over 10,000 new unwrapped toys for the local Marine Toys for Tots.

About Lily Transportation LLC

Since 1958, Lily Transportation has engineered and operated highly efficient dedicated logistics systems throughout the United States and Canada.  As a Dedicated Contract Carrier, Lily manages over 60 locations, 1,400 employees and 2,250 assets.  The company attributes their success to a culture of “Exceptional People, Elite Performance”, and is dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities in which they operate and contributing to a sustainable future.  Lily’s headquarters is in Needham, MA. (lily.com)

About the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program

Since 1947, The Marine Corps and Toys for Tots has been making a difference in the lives of American Families, distributing over 542 million toys to more than 250 million children.  The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, a 501 © (3) not-for-profit charity, was established in 1991 at the behest of the Marine Corps to help run and support the Marine Toys for Tots Program. Since then, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program has relied on the support of local communities for three months each year to collect and distribute new unwrapped toys to help less fortunate children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas.

LILY TRANSPORTATION HELPS SALVATION ARMY DELIVER THANKSGIVING DINNERS TO VETERANS

NEEDHAM, MA, November 21, 2023 — For the fourth consecutive year, Lily Transportation LLC partnered with the Salvation Army and the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Boston to deliver over 225 turkey dinners to Veterans’ families in Brockton and Jamaica Plain, MA during Operation Turkey Drop. Lily donated the services of its drivers and refrigerated tractor trailer trucks to ensure that the November 18 pick-up and delivery of the holiday meals went off without a hitch. Shown left to right above are: Mike Stanton, SVP Operations and Compliance, Lily; Derek Blanchard, Lily Driver; Al Souza, Lily Driver; Joseph Tocci, Department of Veterans Affairs Peer Support Specialist; and Mike Blanchard, Lily Driver.  Lily has been an active community sponsor of a variety of Salvation Army initiatives for the past 20 years. Its efforts on behalf of Operation Turkey Drop have helped the organization provide meals for over 1000 Veterans’ families.

About Lily Transportation LLC

Since 1958, Lily Transportation has engineered and operated highly efficient dedicated logistics systems throughout the United States and Canada.  As a Dedicated Contract Carrier, Lily manages over 60 locations, 1,400 employees and 2,250 assets.  The company attributes their success to a culture of “Exceptional People, Elite Performance”, and is dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities in which they operate and contributing to a sustainable future.  Lily’s headquarters is in Needham, MA. (lily.com) 

2023 National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

The week of September 10th thru the 16th is National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. It is the one official week of the year that Americans take time to recognize all truck drivers who keep our country supplied and running.

Lily would like to thank not only our dedicated and professional drivers, but also the 3.6 million men and women in our industry for their hard work in undertaking one of our economy’s most demanding jobs.

Our drivers deliver our customer’s goods safely, securely and on-time, which often times goes unnoticed. The importance and success of our drivers at Lily is appreciated and recognized not only during this week, but throughout the year!

The past few years we have successfully managed up and down economies, fuel pricing, Covid, weather events and other challenges. Our drivers have met all obstacles and our company is better positioned to succeed because of them.

Lily salutes your efforts and your dedication to our industry. Our best wishes go out to all our drivers and their families for a job well done!

-Mike Stanton, SVP Operations & Compliance

ZS Fund L.P. Acquires Lily Transportation to be Affiliate of Transervice Logistics

Transaction provides Transervice Logistics and Lily Transportation with increased scale and flexibility with the combined strength of more than 2,600 employees (over 1,750 drivers) in over 185 North American locations.

NEW YORK, NY, July 10, 2023 — ZS Fund L.P., a private equity firm and majority owner of Transervice Logistics, Inc., announced today that an affiliate managed by it has acquired Lily Transportation Corp., a Needham, Massachusetts-based dedicated contract carriage company. The transaction substantially increases the scale of services and resources that Transervice and Lily bring to the marketplace with the combined strength of more than 2,600 employees (over 1,750 drivers) in over 185 North American locations.

The increased scale is concentrated in the companies’ dedicated contract carriage and freight brokerage offerings, which are in addition to the contract maintenance and full-service leasing services offered by Transervice.

Gregg Nierenberg, President & Chief Executive Officer of Transervice, will also serve as President & CEO of Lily. Alex Lafaras, EVP & Chief Financial Officer of Transervice, will also assume this role for Lily.

“Our investment in Transervice Logistics 16 years ago has been a very successful one due to the company’s ability to provide outstanding service to its customers,” said Bob Horne, Managing Partner of ZS Fund L.P. “Lily’s experienced and knowledgeable operating executives have exhibited this same customer-centric approach, which is what attracted us to the company, and we look forward to the best practices of each company being shared with the other.”

“ZS Fund’s well-earned reputation in our industry as a private equity group looking for long-term appreciation, while allowing existing management teams to lead their companies, led me to choose ZS as Lily’s financial partner,” said John Simourian II, Lily’s President & CEO. “I have every confidence that Gregg Nierenberg is the right leader to ensure Lily’s continued growth. He has been a distinguished leader at some of the largest companies in our industry, and he respects and embraces our proud heritage and the exceptional customers and associates who have made us the great company we are today. While I will no longer be involved in Lily’s day-to-day operations, as Chairman of Lily and a board member and investor in Lily and Transervice, I will be fully engaged in providing support and guidance to Lily’s new leadership.” 

One Owner, Two Separate Companies

Customers can expect business as usual, as Transervice and Lily will be united under one owner and continue to operate as separate companies. Each will retain their independent corporate names and separate field and management teams.

According to Mr. Nierenberg, this dual-brand approach will create more opportunities for customers given the strong cultures already present in both companies known for their customer focus, empowered managers and flexible, agile approach. “These are differentiators we will continue to embrace and promote,” he stressed.

He also expects this transaction to provide more flexibility when matching prospective new customer needs and locations with each company’s strengths. The two companies now have an aggregate of 2,600 employees, including over 1,750 drivers for dedicated contract carriage services, in more than 185 locations and manage approximately 27,000 pieces of equipment. The combined entities’ increased scale will create opportunities for its customers to benefit from shared buying power, knowledge, best practices and technology advancements.

“Transervice and Lily’s cultures and business approaches are remarkably similar,” said Nierenberg. “Both companies have many very long-standing customer relationships. We value these partnerships and will continue to give our customers the white glove touch. Every customer is provided with a senior executive point-of-contact to ensure responsive, efficient management in their day-to-day operations.”

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About ZS Fund L.P.

ZS Fund L.P. is a private equity firm engaged in making long-term investments in successful middle-market companies. Since 1985, it has focused on transactions that provide liquidity to business owners while enabling them to maintain a significant ownership stake and keep their company independent. The firm’s strengths are understanding the objectives of business owners, structuring transactions that respond to those objectives, and being constructive partners to help increase the value of the businesses in which it invests. (zsfundlp.com)

About Transervice Logistics Inc.

Founded in 1969, Transervice has a history of service and a tradition of excellence. It is owned by ZS Fund L.P., as well as current and former executives of Transervice. The company’s service offering includes dedicated contract carriage, contract maintenance, full-service leasing and freight brokerage. Transerviceoperates out of more than 135 facilities across North America and manages over 25,000 pieces of equipment.The workforce is comprised of over 1,200 associates, including over 650 drivers and 350 technicians. The company’s headquarters is in Lake Success, NY.  (transervice.com)

About Lily Transportation Corp.

Lily’s transportation roots date back to 1943 when the company assisted the military with truck transport during World War II.  It began as a leasing company in 1958, and in 1967 started a trucking division (soon to become Dedicated Contract Carriage) for a regional food distributor. Lily sold its leasing division in 2007 and concentrates solely on dedicated contract carriage.  The company manages over 2,250 pieces of equipment in more than 50 locations, staffed by over 1,400 team members, including over 1,100 drivers.  The company’s headquarters, The Field Support Center, is in Needham, MA.  (lily.com)

Celebrate American Heart Month: Join the #OurHearts Movement

February is American Heart Month!

Did you know that people who have close relationships at home, work, or in their community tend to be healthier and live longer? One reason, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), is that we’re more successful at meeting our health goals when we work on them with others. NHLBI launched the #OurHearts movement to inspire us to protect and strengthen our hearts with the support of others.

Here are some facts, how-to tips, and resources to inspire you to join with others, even if you can’t be physically together, to improve your heart health. 

Heart disease is a leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, and as many of us know, hours of sitting in a truck can create an increased risk for our truck drivers.  By middle age, most people have one or more risk factors — diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, being a smoker or being overweight. Having multiple risk factors increases your risk for heart disease.

Why Connecting is Good for Your Heart

Feeling connected with others and having positive, close relationships benefit our overall health, including our blood pressure and weight. Having people in our lives who motivate and care for us helps, as do feelings of closeness and companionship. 

Follow these heart-healthy lifestyle tips to protect your heart. It will be easier and more successful if you work on them with others, including texting and calls if needed.

  • Be more physically active.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Eat a nutritious diet.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Reduce stress.
  • Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep.
  • Track your heart health stats.

You don’t have to make big changes all at once. Small steps will get you where you want to go.

Move more

Invite family, friends, colleagues, or members of your community to join you in your efforts to be more physically active:

  • Ask  someone to walk with you on a regular basis, put the date your calendars and remind to make sure you take that walk. 

  • Get a friend or family member to sign up for the same online exercise class.  Make it a regular date!

  • Grab your kids, put on music, and dance, do jumping jacks, or play an active game.

How much is enough? Aim for at least 2½ hours of physical activity each week— just 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. In addition, do muscle strengthening exercises 2 days a week. Can’t carve out a lot of time in your day? Chunk it! Exercise 15 minutes a few times a day.  Truck drivers, get out and stretch and take a short walk on your break.  This Move More fact sheet has ideas to get and keep you moving.

Aim for a healthy weight

Find someone in your circle who also wants to reach or maintain a healthy weight. (even a small weight loss of 5–10% improves your health.) Check in regularly to stay motivated. Agree to do healthy activities, like walking, cooking a healthy meal, yoga.  Do them at the same time as your buddy, even if you can’t be together.

Eat heart-healthy

We tend to eat like our friends and family, so ask others close to you to join in your effort to eat healthier. Together, try NHLBI’s free Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan. Research shows that, compared to a typical American diet, it lowers high blood pressure and improves cholesterol levels.

Quit smoking

To help you quit, ask others for support or join an online support group. Research shows that people are much more likely to quit if their spouse, friend, or sibling does. All states have quit lines with trained counselors—call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669). You’ll find many free resources to help you quit, such as apps, a motivational text service, and a chat line at BeTobaccoFree.hhs.gov and Smokefree.gov.

If you need extra motivation to quit, consider those around you: Breathing other people’s smoke, called secondhand smoke, is dangerous. Many adult nonsmokers die of stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer caused by secondhand smoke.

Manage stress

Reducing stress helps your heart health. Set goals with a friend or family member to do a relaxing activity every day, like walking, yoga, or meditation, or participate in an online stress-management program together. Physical activity also helps reduce stress. Talk to a mental health provider if you need additional support.

Improve sleep

Sleeping 7–8 hours a night helps to improve heart health. De-stressing will help you sleep, as does getting a 30-minute daily dose of sunlight. Take a walk instead of a late afternoon nap! Turn off the screens and stick to a regular bedtime. Relax by listening to music or a podcast or read a good book.

Track Your Heart Health Stats

Keeping a log of your blood pressure, weight goals, physical activity, and if you have diabetes, your blood sugars, will help you stay on a heart-healthy track. Ask your friends or family to join you in the effort. Check out NHLBI’s Healthy Blood Pressure for Healthy Hearts: Tracking Your Numbers worksheet.

Visit #OurHearts for inspiration on what others around the country are doing together for their heart health. Then join the #OurHearts movement and let us know what you’re doing to have a healthy heart. Tag #OurHearts #LilyTransportation to share how you and your family and friends are being heart healthy. We have a very special place in our hearts for America’s truck drivers and hope you all stay heart healthy and safe out there!

Simple Tips to Fend off Holiday Stress

The holiday season has arrived!  For some, the season rings of sentimentality, joy and family tradition. For others, not so much.  Folks who are lonely, dealing with health issues or struggling financially, often feel worse this time of year.

According to the American Psychological Association, 38 percent of people report a noticeable increase in stress during the holidays. Lack of time, living up to the hype, and pressures associated with gift giving are at the top of the list of stressors.  Perceived responsibilities to create a joyful experience for family adds to holiday stress with half of men (49%) and women (51%) reporting pressure to make sure family members are happy.

Thankfully, there are some simple techniques you can use to lower your stress level and stay healthy this holiday season.  To help keep the “Happy” in your holidays, here’s what to know.

  •  Just Say NO

When the holiday invitations start rolling in, saying “yes” to them all can create feelings of overwhelm, resentment and anxiety.  Even the gatherings that sound like fun ahead of time can end up compounding your stress when you suddenly find yourself with too many things to do and not enough time to get it all done. Accepting the invitations you find most appealing and kindly saying “No” to the rest will help you keep your peace and joy.

  •  Unplug

The constant connectivity to our screens can make it difficult for our brain to slow down and allow us to relax. Try choosing one day a week to turn off your devices.  Ignore those emails and spend your unplugged time on a fun project, a relaxing walk, cooking a yummy meal for friends and family, or reading a great book.

  •  Acknowledge your Stress 

Trying to suppress stress just causes the pressure to mount. By acknowledging and expressing those feelings in a healthy way, you can transform the negative to a positive. Focus on a good outcome AND acknowledge the stress simultaneously.  For example, “I feel exhausted and overwhelmed by all I have to do but I am so excited about all the people coming to our holiday dinner”.  

  •  Do something nice for someone

In the midst of all the parties and shopping, take time for small acts of kindness — you’ll be glad you did!  Studies have shown that both you and the recipient of your kindness experience reduced stress and improved emotional well-being. Acts of kindness can be as simple as paying a compliment, holding a door open, or expressing gratitude toward someone you appreciate.

  •  Walk it Off

A brisk, walk provides a repetitive rhythm that soothes your brain, relieves anxiety and helps you sleep. The busier things become, the more important it is to make time for physical activity.  A short walk can be done anywhere at any time and can make a big difference in your mental health.  Breathe in the fresh air and the sites and sounds of life around you – it’s like pressing the Reset button!

  •  Laugh Often

Laughter reduces stress hormones AND boosts your immune system. Keep your sense of humor as much as possible during the holiday rush and laugh whenever you get the chance.

  •  Let it Go

With the holidays constantly romanticized on TV and social media, there’s a lot of pressure to make them perfect. Over the years, traditions and family can multiply, leading to even more preparation and less time for decompressing. Realistically, you cannot do it all — and that’s okay.  Choose a few things that matter most to you and let the rest go, guilt-free.

  • Maintain your Routine

When our schedules become too crowded, routines are often the first thing to go. During stressful times, healthy eating, staying active, and getting a good night’s sleep are more important than ever. Maintaining your morning ritual, that daily workout, and your wake/sleep schedule will ease the load on your physical and menta/emotional bodies. Nobody likes a grumpy holiday guest!

  •  Add a Little Citrus

Researchers have discovered that the citrus scents of lemon and orange can increase your levels of the mood-influencing hormone norepinephrine, which amplifies feelings of well-being. Citrus-scented soaps, essential oils, or simmering a mixture of lemons, cloves, and rosemary on the stovetop can make a big difference when you find yourself feeling tense.

  •  Don’t Do it Alone 

Even though you may feel that no one can do it as well as you can, you’ll experience more joy if you start delegating or asking for help.  It is often one of the most empowering things you can do and can go a long way toward relieving stress. You don’t have to do it all!Slowing down to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa (add the marshmallow), watch a holiday movie or make a call to a loved one can go a long way to help make the holidays feel merry and bright! 

Fall Seasonal Driving Tips

Fall weather can be erratic with temperature fluctuations and conditions often changing by the hour. Preparation is key to safe driving during the Autumn season.

With all of the beauty and festivity that Fall brings each year, this season also comes with its own unique driving risks.  Slippery roads, decreased daylight, fog and sun glare are to be expected. Autumn weather conditions can change quickly.

Here’s how to plan and prepare for all that this season brings to the road.

The Nights are Longer…

As the days get shorter, you will likely be driving in the dark a lot more.

  • Keep your headlights clean and in proper working order; dim or misaligned headlights can decrease your visibility. Never drive faster than your headlights can illuminate your way.
  • Pedestrians walking, jogging or biking through the streets may be more difficult to see, especially if they are wearing dark clothing.
  • School is in session so use caution and be mindful of children walking to and from bus stops in the early morning.
  • Seasonal animal behaviors create moving obstacles for drivers, especially at night.  There is increased wildlife activity on the roads with small animals like squirrels busy storing food for winter, and large animals like deer, boar and moose out looking for mates.  Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to wildlife crossing signs.  Slow down in areas wildlife is known to frequent.

 Cold Weather

Cooler temperatures bring frost, ice, and even early snow to the roads

  • Fall weather can change rapidly from warm to cold, causing roads to ice. Be on the lookout for black ice and remember to drive slowly and brake gently on bridges and overpasses as these surfaces tend to frost over before others.
  • Check your tire pressure daily. Extreme changes may lead to a loss of tire pressure causing your tires to become less stable and lose their grip and traction. 
  • Before starting your vehicle, scrape away any frost on your windows and check to see that your defrosters are working properly.

Driving in Fog

With cold autumn mornings often comes fog.

  • Driving in foggy weather can be disorienting and dangerous.  When you encounter fog, set your headlights to low even though it may be counter intuitive. Low beams aim down toward the road and improve visibility.   High beams on the other hand, bounce off of fog and reflect back at you, further impairing your ability to see the road.
  • Slow down and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you so that you have ample time to stop if necessary.
  • If the fog is especially dense and your visibility is severely reduced, it may be better to pull of the road and wait it out.  Pull a safe distance off the road and turn on your hazard lights as other drivers may not see you.  Call your dispatcher, they will help you stay safe.

Glare

Autumn’s sunrises and sunsets can cause a large amount of glare, making it difficult to see other vehicles, pedestrians, traffic lights or the road.

  • Be mindful of the time of day. Sun glare tends to be the worst in the early morning and late afternoon. …
  • A clean windshield inside and out is a priority. Grime, streaks and smudges can become magnified when the sun hits your windshield making it even more difficult to see. 
  • Keep a pair of sunglasses in your vehicle at all times to help deal with the glare of that strong sunshine.   If you frequently drive at night, consider anti-glare polarized glasses to reduce that blinding sensation from oncoming headlights. 
  • Slow down and leave more room.  Your visibility and reaction time will decrease due to glare, so it’s important to give yourself a greater gap to react.

 

Wet Conditions

Fall often brings increased rainfall, which creates the danger of wet leaves, an experience like driving on ice.

  • Large amounts of wet leaves make roads slippery and cover up potholes, road bumps, and ice which can lead to accidents. Slow down in wooded areas after a rain shower to avoid hydroplaning.
  • Before starting your car, remove any leaves from your windshield to prevent them from getting stuck under your wiper blades. Also, be sure to replace your windshield wiper blades if they show signs of wear.
  • When driving during heavy rain, slow down, especially around turns. Wet conditions increase the time it takes your vehicle to come to a complete stop, so keep a good distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
  • Avoid sudden movements with the steering wheel or slamming on the brakes, as this can cause you to hydroplane. If you feel that you are losing control of your vehicle, steer straight and gently release the gas pedal until you feel the tires make contact with the road surface again.