Federal crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that multi-vehicle crashes involving large trucks increase during major holiday travel periods, particularly around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. In most of those crashes, the truck driver is not cited as the primary cause. The issue is not skill. It is congestion, unpredictability, and a reduced margin for error.

What follows is practical advice from truck drivers based on how these situations play out on the road every holiday season.

Why space matters more than speed

Truck drivers build space around their vehicles on purpose. A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80000 pounds, and stopping distance increases significantly in cold weather. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the stopping distance for large trucks at highway speed can exceed the length of a football field in ideal conditions. Snow, ice, and rain extend that distance even further.

When a passenger vehicle moves into that space, the truck driver does not lose patience. They lose options. The safest reaction is often to back off and rebuild space, which can slow traffic and frustrate surrounding drivers. Leaving that buffer intact allows trucks to brake gradually and maintain control.

What truck drivers see that most travelers do not

Truck drivers sit higher and see further ahead, especially in traffic slowdowns. They often react early to brake lights, lane closures, or weather changes that are not yet visible to smaller vehicles. When a group of trucks reduces speed together, it usually indicates something ahead that requires caution.

Ignoring that signal and weaving through slower trucks increases the risk of sudden braking and rear-end collisions. Truck drivers consistently advise watching the flow of commercial traffic as an early warning system.

Passing safely reduces risk for everyone.

One of the most stressful situations for truck drivers during holiday traffic is prolonged side-by-side driving. Tractor-trailers have large blind spots along both sides and directly behind the trailer. Poor weather, road spray, and darkness make those blind spots harder to manage.

Passing with steady speed and reestablishing distance ahead reduces exposure time and improves visibility. Lingering next to a trailer offers no benefit and increases risk if wind gusts, ice patches, or lane shifts appear suddenly.

Turning and merging requires patience.

Holiday traffic brings more congestion near retail areas, fuel stops, and highway ramps. Trucks require additional space to turn, particularly on slick pavement where trailers track wider than usual.

Cutting into that space or attempting to squeeze past a turning truck can lead to low-speed crashes that block traffic for hours. Truck drivers recommend waiting through the full turn and allowing merges to complete before accelerating. Those few seconds prevent damage, delays, and injuries.

Distraction has greater consequences in winter traffic

Holiday travel often coincides with increased phone use, navigation adjustments, and in-vehicle entertainment. At the same time, winter conditions reduce traction and visibility. The margin for distraction shrinks.

Truck drivers rely on predictable behavior from surrounding traffic. Sudden lane changes, inconsistent speeds, and delayed reactions force large vehicles into defensive maneuvers that are harder to execute safely in poor conditions.

Staying focused and signaling early allows truck drivers to anticipate movements rather than react to them.

Planning time changes driving behavior.

Rushing is one of the most common factors that truck drivers observe during holiday travel. Tight schedules lead to aggressive lane changes, late braking, and speeding on compromised roads.

Building extra time into holiday trips reduces pressure and improves decision-making. Slower, more deliberate driving stabilizes traffic flow and lowers crash risk for all vehicles on the road.

A shared responsibility during peak travel weeks

Truck drivers deliver the fuel, food, medical supplies, and retail goods that make the holidays possible. Safer roads help ensure those deliveries arrive on time and without incident.

The most effective safety improvements do not come from technology or enforcement alone. They come from everyday decisions made by the people sharing the road.

Leaving space, passing deliberately, slowing early, and staying attentive are small actions with measurable impact. During the busiest driving season of the year, those choices make the road safer for everyone.

The post How Travelers Can Make the Road Safer for Truck Drivers During the Holidays appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Keeping Your Fuel Flowing When It’s Freezing

One thing I always check is the fuel. Diesel can start to gel when the temperature drops, and that’s a nasty surprise you don’t want mid-trip. Anti-gel additives are a must-have, and keeping your fuel tank at least half full? Non-negotiable. It keeps moisture from freezing up your lines. Also, replacing those fuel filters before the cold sets in makes a huge difference.

Coolant and Radiators: Don’t Let Your Engine Freeze

Ever had an engine freeze? It’s brutal. Use a 50/50 antifreeze mixture that’s rated for Minnesota’s bitter cold and check your hoses and radiator for even the smallest leaks before winter hits. I also slap on a winter front to my radiator, helps the engine warm up faster on those frigid mornings.

Oils That Work When the Mercury Drops

I switch to low-viscosity engine oils for winter, think SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30. It might seem small, but this change helps your engine start easier and cuts down wear. Always check your truck’s manual to make sure you’re using what the pros recommend.

Batteries and Wiring: Stay Powered Up

Cold weather can be brutal on batteries. Before winter, I test mine and swap out any that aren’t up to the task. Don’t forget to clean terminals and apply dielectric grease to keep them corrosion-free. Wiring exposed to salt and moisture is another silent threat; check for cracks or wear.

Tires, Chains, and Traction: Grip the Road

Winter tires aren’t optional in Minnesota, they’re a lifesaver. I check tire pressures daily because cold air shrinks the pressure, and that messes with handling. Always have tire chains or traction socks handy—I’ve gotten stuck more than once without them.

Brakes and Air Systems: Safety First

I drain the air tanks every day when it’s freezing to keep moisture from freezing inside the brakes. I also keep an eye on brake pads, rotors, and test ABS regularly. Nothing matters more than having brakes that respond.

Visibility: See and Be Seen

Winter wiper blades and cold-weather washer fluid are game changers in snow and ice. I also make sure every light on my rig is working and clean. Consider LED upgrades or anti-fog lens covers if you can really help on those foggy, snowy nights.

Block Heaters and Cabin Warmth

Plug in your block heater whenever temps drop below 20°F. It saves your engine a ton of wear. And don’t overlook your cab heater and defroster comfort equals safety on those long winter hauls.

Always Travel Prepared

I never hit the road without a winter emergency kit, extra clothes, blankets, snacks, and tools. If Minnesota’s weather turns against you, being prepared can save your life.

Find Reliable Minnesota Mechanics

Local mechanics know what winter does to trucks here. Build a relationship with a shop that understands your rig and Minnesota’s harsh weather, to get fast, effective help if something goes wrong.

Winter is tough, but with these steps, you can tackle Minnesota roads with confidence. Proper prep isn’t just about your truck, it’s about your safety and livelihood. Take these measures seriously, invest time in your rig, and you’ll avoid costly downtime all season. When the snow flies, you’ll be ready to roll.

The post How Minnesota Semi-Truck Drivers Get Ready for Winter appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Dangerous Spike in Snowplow Collisions

On Wednesday, February 12, during a massive statewide snowstorm, Iowa recorded 15 incidents where vehicles struck DOT snowplows, setting a new single-day record. Previously, the highest number of snowplow strikes in a single day stood at nine in 2024.

This year’s unprecedented collisions didn’t just impact February. Until this week, only nine snowplow hits had been recorded for the entire 2025 winter season, which officially began on October 15. Now, with two months remaining until winter operations conclude on April 15, the season’s total has climbed to 25 snowplow strikes.

To put this in perspective, the annual average for snowplow collisions from 2015 to 2024 hovered around 32, with the highest total set in 2019 at 47 accidents.

Collision Breakdown and Key Patterns

The snowstorm’s collisions comprised equal numbers of rear-end hits and sideswipes, occurring across multiple regions, including the northeast, southeast, and southwest parts of Iowa. Seven of these accidents were reported along the heavily traveled I-80 corridor. While snowfall persisted throughout the day, the majority of incidents took place during daylight hours.

Although all 15 strikes caused varying levels of damage to snowplows, specific estimates are not yet available.

Why Are Snowplow Collisions Happening?

Craig Bargfrede, Iowa DOT’s winter operations administrator, pointed to several preventable factors contributing to this sharp rise in snowplow collisions.

“Many motorists are distracted and not recognizing what’s ahead or adjusting their following distances in winter driving conditions,” he explained. “Additionally, speed and visibility—two key factors—are creating dangerous situations. Working plows travel between 10 and 35 miles per hour and often create snow clouds that reduce visibility. Drivers approach these clouds too quickly without reducing their speed.”

Bargfrede emphasized that these accidents not only jeopardize the safety of DOT employees but also compromise the safety of all motorists. Many collisions even result in snowplows being taken out of service, limiting their ability to maintain safer roads during critical times.

Stay Safe Around Snowplows with Smart Driving Practices

To prevent accidents and protect both DOT workers and travelers, the Iowa DOT urges drivers to follow these vital safety tips when approaching a snowplow:

1. Don’t Crowd the Plow

Snowplows are wider than most road vehicles and frequently turn or exit the roadway. Their front blades extend several feet and may cross the shoulder or centerline.

2. Avoid Passing on the Shoulder Side

Plows are designed to move snow toward shoulders, making it unsafe to pass on that side. Stay behind them—it’s safer and ensures cleared paths.

3. Beware of Wing Blades

Watch out for wing blades, which may be hidden under blowing snow but extend from either side of the snowplow truck.

4. Don’t Tailgate or Stop Too Close

Keep a safe distance behind snowplows as they may stop abruptly or spread deicing materials onto the road. Following too closely puts you at risk if they need to maneuver suddenly.

5. Limit Time Beside the Plow

Driving alongside snowplows can be risky, especially if a snowdrift or packed snow causes the truck to shift unexpectedly.

6. Move Away from the Centerline

When passing a snowplow on a two-lane road, give them space by moving to the far-right side of your lane.

7. Pass Only When Absolutely Necessary

If you need to pass a snowplow, wait for a large, unmistakably clear opening, and don’t merge back too closely.

8. Use Your Headlights

Using your headlights ensures that snowplow operators can spot you easily in their mirrors, especially in low-visibility conditions.

Source: The Trucker

The post Record-Breaking Snowplow Collisions Highlight Winter Driving Risks in Iowa appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Understanding the Peak Season Surge

E-commerce sales are expected to soar to $240.8 billion this holiday season, a 4.9% increase from last year, according to Reuters. Amazon Relay plays a vital role in this boom, with carriers experiencing significantly higher freight volumes. Whether you’re an owner-operator or part of a fleet, understanding how to handle peak season can make all the difference.

Key Tips for Success

Secure Contracts for Stability

Amazon Relay offers short-term contracts that provide consistent work for weeks or months. By bidding on these contracts, you can plan your schedule, lock in steady earnings, and avoid the stress of last-minute spot freight.

Optimize with Spot Freight

For additional flexibility, use the real-time load board to find spot freight that fits your route and schedule. The “Post A Truck” feature is a game-changer, automatically matching you with loads that align with your preferences, saving time and effort.

Manage Your Time Effectively

The holiday shopping window is shorter this year, compressing the timeline for deliveries. Stay organized with efficient route planning and proactive communication using the Amazon Relay app. Every minute saved counts during peak season.

Staying Safe Amid the Rush

Prepare for Winter Conditions

The holiday season often means harsher weather. Equip your truck with cold-weather essentials like blankets, extra layers, and a first-aid kit. Ensure your tires, brakes, and engine are in top condition to handle icy roads. For more detailed tips, check out Amazon Relay’s winter driving guide.

Anticipate Heavy Traffic

Holiday shoppers and travelers mean busier roads. Stay patient and alert, and use tools like GPS and real-time traffic updates in the Amazon Relay app to avoid congestion and delays.

Combat Driver Fatigue

Long hours are common during peak season. Schedule regular rest breaks, stay hydrated, and maintain a balanced diet to keep your energy up. Fatigue is a leading cause of accidents, so prioritize your well-being.

Leverage Seasonal Hiring Trends

Amazon’s addition of 250,000 transportation and warehouse workers this year (Reuters) reflects the sheer scale of the holiday surge. This increased workforce ensures smoother operations, but it also highlights the importance of staying efficient and adaptable during the season.

Maximize Your Earnings

Higher freight volumes translate to more earning potential, but only if you’re prepared. Plan your routes strategically, communicate with dispatchers proactively, and focus on maintaining efficiency to take full advantage of the season.

The holiday rush on Amazon Relay offers unparalleled opportunities for truck drivers ready to meet the challenge. With proper strategies and a focus on safety, you can make this peak season your most successful yet. Stay safe, stay efficient, and gear up for a busy but rewarding ride.

The post How to Thrive During the Holiday Rush with Amazon Relay appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.