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Commercial Auto Safety During the Holiday Rush

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The holiday season brings heavier traffic, tighter delivery deadlines, and more distractions on the road—all of which increase risks for businesses with commercial vehicles.

Whether you operate a delivery fleet, use service vans, or allow employees to drive company cars, winter driving safety is essential. Here’s how your business can stay protected this December.

1. Train Drivers on Safe Winter Driving

Drivers should be reminded of:

  • Slower stopping distances on snow or ice
  • Maintaining longer following distances
  • Gradual braking and acceleration
  • Avoiding sharp turns or sudden lane changes
  • Reducing speed during storms

A quick seasonal safety meeting can significantly reduce the chance of accidents.

2. Perform Winter Maintenance on All Vehicles

Before winter weather intensifies, schedule a full inspection to check:

  • Tires and tread depth
  • Brake function
  • Battery health
  • Antifreeze levels
  • Windshield wipers and fluid
  • Lights and signals

Preventative maintenance lowers the risk of breakdowns and road incidents.

3. Use Telematics to Improve Safety

Telematics systems help track:

  • Speeding
  • Hard braking
  • Excessive idling
  • Unsafe driving habits
  • Vehicle location

Businesses often see fewer claims and lower long-term premiums when telematics data is used for coaching and risk reduction.

4. Update Liability Limits if Needed

Holiday operations often mean:

  • More deliveries
  • More miles driven
  • Temporary drivers
  • Higher-value cargo

If your business expands its seasonal activity, it may be time to review liability limits to ensure you’re properly protected in the event of an accident.

5. Build a Winter Emergency Kit for Each Vehicle

Stock your vehicles with:

  • Blankets
  • Ice scrapers
  • Shovels
  • Sand or kitty litter for traction
  • Flashlights
  • First-aid kits
  • Portable chargers
  • Non-perishable snacks

This ensures drivers are prepared if they get stuck during a storm.

With proper preparation and coverage, businesses can keep their teams safe and operations running smoothly during the busy holiday season.