What Every Driver Should Know for Summer 2025
Post Date - Jun 26, 2025
When the temperature rises, so do the risks on the road. From scorching heat to vacation traffic, summer brings a unique set of safety challenges for professional drivers. We caught up with Ross Christensen, Safety Manager at Paper Transport, to share a few critical reminders and strategies to help our team stay safe, alert, and ready for anything this season.
Ross has been with PTI for 8 years and has served as Safety Manager for the past year. He’s seen firsthand how small precautions can make a big difference—especially during the busiest months of the year.
Heat, Haze, and Heavy Traffic
Summer’s biggest challenge? The heat—and not just for your comfort.
“High temperatures can wear down both drivers and equipment,” Ross says. “Fatigue sets in faster when you’re overheated, and it becomes easier to lose focus behind the wheel. And it’s not just about the physical toll—warmer weather also leads to more traffic, vacationers, motorcycles, and campers on the road, increasing the potential for unexpected stops or slowdowns.”
Then there’s the unofficial season truckers know all too well: Construction.
“There’s only two seasons in trucking: winter and construction,” Ross jokes. But it’s no laughing matter when lanes shift, traffic slows, and signage becomes confusing. “Drivers need to be extra alert in construction zones—and patient.”
Keep Your Truck Cool, Too
At PTI, safety starts before you hit the road. Pre-trip inspections are always essential—but in the summer, they’re even more critical.
“Tires, coolant, belts, and hoses—those are the big four,” Ross says. “If any of those go, so does your A/C. And with hotter temps, tires run hotter too. If the pressure drops, the risk of a blowout goes up.”
PTI’s monthly training modules get more summer-specific this time of year, with a focus on heat-related wear and tear. Drivers are reminded to monitor tire pressure, watch for coolant leaks, and stay ahead of any signs of strain on their equipment.
Hydration & Fatigue: Don’t Push Through It
One of the simplest, smartest things you can do on a hot day? Keep water in your cab.
“Drivers should always have extra water on hand,” Ross emphasizes. “If there’s an accident or tire blowout, you could be stuck on the highway. You’ll want that water.”
Ross also stresses the importance of regular breaks. “Get enough rest. Take a 30-minute break. Walk around. Stretch. Don’t try to push through the fatigue.”
Tech & Team Support on the Road
At PTI, drivers aren’t in this alone. Through their onboard tablets, drivers can quickly message maintenance and get routed to assistance through PTI’s network of trusted vendors across the country. Whether it’s a blown tire or overheating issue, help is just a message away.
“Our maintenance team works directly with vendors to get drivers whatever help they need,” Ross says. “We’ve got the support system in place—you just have to use it.”
One last tip from Ross: Before you head out this summer, take a moment to check yourself and your truck.
“Make sure you’re going to hold up—and that your equipment is going to hold up,” Ross advises. “A little preparation goes a long way in keeping you safe, comfortable, and rolling.”
At Paper Transport, we’re committed to making sure every driver gets home safely—no matter the season. If you ever have a question, concern, or safety tip of your own, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ve got your back.
Stay safe. Stay cool. And thank you for all you do out there.