Springtime tends to arrive early here in Texas. And when winter moves that means one thing—weather changes. Spring is among the stormiest seasons in central Texas, and it can have a major impact on roadways. Truckers are likely keenly aware of the extra driving risks in spring. They might ask: what
are some things I can do to protect my truck this spring? Here are a few hints.
Frequent Spring Weather in Texas
Warming weather tends to create fronts that bring severe storms with them. Yet, a severe storm isn’t a singular phenomenon. They can include lots of different weather conditions, like:
- High winds
- Lightning
- Heavy rains and flash flooding
- Tornadoes
- Hail
With these and other occurrences in a storm, the risk of damage and operational risks in your truck might skyrocket.
How Storms Might Impact Trucks
If you get caught in a storm, you could put yourself and your truck in harm’s way. Here are a few damaging incidents that might occur:
- Limbs or other projectiles could hit the truck
- Though rare, lightning might strike the truck. There’s even the potential for a fire
- Hail damage could shatter windshields and damage the trailer
- Tornadoes, it goes without saying, could completely obliterate the vehicle
- Roads could wash out, making them impassible for large (indeed, any) vehicles. Flash flooding can likewise wash away trucks and cars
The total loss of your truck might prove a likely scenario. That’s a potentially-huge loss to you, physically and financially.
Don’t worry yet. Your trucking insurance will likely cover some or all the damage to your truck. If you have a trucking cargo policy, you can also likely cover your cargo. Yet, you’ll need to ensure that you have comprehensive insurance on your policy. Comprehensive protection pays for damage unrelated to a wreck. In this case, weather is a near-perfect example of a covered comprehensive risk.
Preventing Damage
We get it, you can’t control the weather. You also can’t control many damages that might result from a storm. But, you can take steps to minimize the damage threats both on the road and at home.
- If caught in a severe storm, never make risky maneuvers, like speeding. Indeed, in the most severe weather, it is sometimes better to pull over and wait for the storm to pass.
- Store the vehicle when not driving it. Keep it in a garage or use wheel blocks to anchor it outside.
- Don’t forget, preventive maintenance makes a vehicle more durable. Regular engine service, tire maintenance and cab security might all keep the truck more secure in storms.
Don’t hesitate to talk to one of our agents today at 512-989-6006 or 844-524-4744 about trucking insurance. Yet, never underestimate the importance of preventive care.
Also Read: For Commercial Fleets, Tire Care is Important