Llame al (888) 572-7520 para hablar con un agente
Enviar mensaje a un agente
Heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold are creating dangerous highway conditions across multiple states, forcing truckers to make critical safety decisions before turning the key.
A powerful winter storm continues to grip large portions of the United States, leaving highways coated in snow and ice, triggering widespread power outages, and creating life-threatening travel conditions. While authorities in many states are urging residents to stay off the roads, the reality for the trucking industry is different. Freight still needs to move, supply chains must keep operating, and thousands of professional drivers are facing some of the most hazardous driving conditions of the season.
From the Midwest to the Northeast and across parts of the South, snowfall totals have reached well over a foot in many areas, with some regions seeing close to two feet of accumulation. Ice has proven even more dangerous than snow, adding weight to power lines, knocking out electricity for hundreds of thousands of people, and turning highways, ramps, and bridges into skating rinks.
For truck drivers, these conditions demand heightened awareness, preparation, and disciplined decision-making.
Potential is increasing for another significant winter storm to impact the eastern United States this coming weekend. It is too early to know the details, but please keep updated with the latest forecasts this week! pic.twitter.com/RKa1pzhw6O
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) January 26, 2026
Slow Down — More Than You Think
Safety officials emphasize one core rule above all others: reduce speed.’icy pavement drastically reduces traction, and even experienced drivers can lose control if they drive too fast for conditions. For heavy trucks, stopping distances increase dramatically on snow and ice. A fully loaded tractor-trailer already requires significantly more room to stop than a passenger vehicle — in winter conditions, that distance can double or triple.
Increasing following distance is critical. Drivers should leave far more space than usual between their rig and the vehicle ahead, allowing extra time to react to sudden stops, jackknifed vehicles, or multi-vehicle pileups — all of which are more common during major winter events.
Ramps, Bridges, and Hills Are High-Risk Zones
Reports from multiple states highlight that highway ramps and overpasses remain in especially bad condition, even when main lanes appear passable. These elevated surfaces freeze first and stay icy longer. Steep grades present another serious hazard, particularly for loaded trucks trying to climb or descend.
Drivers should approach ramps slowly, avoid sudden steering or braking inputs, and be prepared for black ice, which can be nearly invisible.
Snow continues across parts of New England today, but has concluded for the rest of the central and eastern United States. Here is a look at some selected snow, sleet, and freezing rain reports from this major winter storm. ❄️🧊
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) January 26, 2026
Find a full list here: https://t.co/AohdzxKx02 pic.twitter.com/M9bw37SpqZ
Prepare the Truck Before You Roll
Before heading out, drivers and fleet managers should ensure vehicles are winter-ready. That includes:
Keeping fuel tanks as full as possible to prevent fuel line freeze-ups and allow extended idling if stranded
Carrying emergency supplies such as blankets, extra winter clothing, food, water, and a flashlight
Having a fully charged phone and vehicle charger
Stocking basic safety equipment like reflective triangles and a first aid kit
Ensuring windshield washer fluid is rated for freezing temperatures
A small snow shovel and ice scraper can also be invaluable if a truck becomes stuck at a rest area or loading facility.
If You Get Stranded, Stay With the Truck
With road closures, accidents, and downed power lines reported in several states, some drivers may find themselves stuck for hours. Safety guidance strongly recommends staying inside the vehicle rather than attempting to walk for help in extreme cold.
Run the engine periodically for heat, but ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Crack a window slightly for ventilation and monitor fuel levels carefully.
Make the vehicle visible by turning on hazard lights when possible and placing reflective triangles if it is safe to exit briefly.
Extreme Cold Brings Health Risks
Wind chills in some areas have dropped to dangerously low levels, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Drivers who must exit their vehicles should wear layered clothing, insulated gloves, hats, and face protection. Even short exposure can be dangerous when temperatures plunge well below freezing.
Fleet operators should also check in frequently with drivers running routes through the hardest-hit regions, ensuring they have safe parking options and are not being pressured to meet unrealistic delivery times.
Power Outages Add Complications
Hundreds of thousands of customers remain without electricity across several states. Downed trees and power lines are blocking secondary roads and access routes to warehouses and truck stops. Drivers should expect detours, limited services at some facilities, and longer delays at distribution centers operating on backup power.
Planning routes in advance and confirming delivery site accessibility can prevent drivers from becoming trapped in unsafe areas.
The Bottom Line for Trucking
This storm is a reminder that winter driving is not just about skill — it’s about judgment. Knowing when to slow down, when to stop, and when to wait out conditions can prevent crashes, injuries, and costly equipment damage.
Freight is important. Safety is non-negotiable.
Until temperatures rise and crews fully clear the highways, truck drivers remain on the front lines of this winter emergency. Preparation, patience, and caution will be the keys to getting through it safely.
The most dangerous states in the U.S. during winter weather
While winter conditions are hazardous across the country, some states experience significantly higher accident rates during this season. A study by Samsara, a safety and
Winter storm disruptions lead to FMCSA HOS relief in 40 states
Motor carriers and drivers providing direct assistance in relief efforts in the affected states are covered by a hours-of-service (HOS) exemption. Over the weekend, a
Air Quality Alert in California Impacts Transportation
An air quality alert has been issued as high levels of fine particle pollution (PM2.5) trigger health warnings across several parts of California. The situation is affecting visibility, driver health, and logistics operations, forcing transportation professionals to take extra precautions on highways and in urban corridors
Winter Storm Survival on the Road: What Truck Drivers and Fleet Operators Need to Know Now
Winter storm with snow, ice, and extreme cold are creating dangerous highway conditions across multiple states, forcing truckers to make critical safety decisions before turning the key.
Miles of love: stories of truckers and their four-legged co-pilots
The love between truckers and their pets is a strong bond, and these stories will surely warm your soul. Love manifests itself in many ways,
Cargo theft report 2025: $725 million in losses
Verisk CargoNet reports that cargo theft crime volumes remained stable, with a sharp increase in total losses. Verisk CargoNet’s 2025 report stated that the total
Business hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. California time