We should pay special attention to bridges and overpasses when driving in temperatures around the freezing point. Over the years we have heard that bridges may be icy while the road is not. We have also seen signs posted before bridges and overpasses which state this for safety reasons. This condition however is an important one that should be given some consideration. So how could the bridge be icy when the road is not? Here’s why.
The first winter storm of the season often catches many of us by surprise. Soon most of us will have had our first big burst of winter weather. The snow-covered roads and plow trucks are an obvious indicator that we should be vigilant while driving. But what about when ice is present without these visual cues? Black ice is the winter threat many of us fail to observe until it’s too late.
The automatic snow chains are genius when you encounter adverse road conditions in the colder seasons. With just a flip of a switch you have instant traction added so that you can get up in speed or if you need to stop, you get improved breaking power.
But what about the rest of the year, when you are not in the winter season? In the middle of the summer or in the autumn?
Friction and traction are key to avoid sliding vehicles and spinning wheels.
Friction is defined as the rubbing of one object or surface against another. The friction between your vehicles’ tires and the road will determine maximum acceleration and minimum stopping distance. The force of friction depends on the force pushing the objects or surfaces together and the coefficient of friction. The coefficient of friction is the relationship between the force required to move the surfaces against each other and the pressure to stay in contact while in motion.
The Driver is in control
We live in the era of automation. Have you ever thought of all the things that used to need a lot of human involvement, but today are seemingly automatic? Buying things for example. We have access to a global supply of products and services that are just a few clicks away, and we get our deliveries with very little human involvement. It’s different systems that communicate and automate that provide this convenience.
Optimisation is key to the transportation industry. From a logistics perspective, trucks should never roll unladen. The bigger truck fill rate, the better. New technologies and driving techniques are developed with the aim of reducing fuel consumption which is good both for the business economy and the environment. Looking at such major factors as fill rate and fuel consumption, is there reason to consider optimisation of such a tiny thing as tyre pressure? Yes, there is!
If you’re a truck driver, you don’t need us to remind you of the job’s daily demands and stressful situations. The busy nature of the trucking industry can make healthy choices almost impossible to integrate throughout the day. However, with prioritization and planning, it is possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle while working on the road.
Natural gas, all electric or autonomous trucks, the vehicles of the future are actually those of the present thanks to the many innovations of manufacturers and equipment manufacturers.
When I attend trade shows, I am often asked if it is necessary to fill out our VSI or Vehicle Suspension Information form. Although the form typically takes 10 minutes to fill out, most people miss the importance of what they consider an “extra” step. Some believe that the VIN number or a description of the suspension should be enough. My favorite, however, is when people tell me the vehicle is a “sister” to one already fitted with Onspots so there should be no need to measure the chassis. This statement could not be more further from the truth.
Our company tagline “saves lives, deadlines and reputations” is not just a catchy slogan, we believe our system has realized its objective. Whether you are a professional transporting goods, people, or in public service, your vehicle is your means to completing your work. You must have control of your vehicle whatever situation you find yourself. Let’s review together how Onspot can get you out of difficult situations.