As a long haul driver, safety should always be the top priority. After all, safety on the road benefits everyone, from drivers to businesses. However, long haul driving is demanding, and staying focused can be a challenge. Below are the top habits of safe, high-performing long haul drivers to help you focus and stay alert on the road.
Hydrate
Dehydration can slow your reaction speeds and increase fatigue. This is why it is crucial to stay hydrated while you are behind the wheel. Staying hydrated helps you to stay alert and focused on the task at hand. Make sure to keep water easily accessible, and consider having electrolyte drinks available too. While caffeine is tempting, it can also dehydrate you, so make sure to consume extra water after a coffee or energy drink.
Take Breaks
Driving for hours on end leads to complacency and fatigue. Stop every few hours and get out of the truck; this will help reset your brain while giving you a chance to move around. You can combine these breaks with a bathroom stop, a meal stop, or just use it as a chance to play tourist. Getting out of the truck helps break the monotonous cycle of driving on long highways, so you can get back behind the wheel fully alert.
Fuel Yourself
Eating just to be full isn’t ideal when you need to focus for long periods. Instead, you need to be sure you are fueling your body correctly. Rather than filling up on sugary snacks and empty calories, make smart decisions focusing on your protein intake. Snacks like beef jerky, nuts, and energy bites are great to keep in the truck. When stopping for meals, aim for something with protein like eggs, meat, or dairy. A high-protein, low-sugar diet will help you to stay focused, while also keeping you fuller for longer.
Use your Brain
Driving for long periods of time can get boring. Luckily, technology makes keeping your brain active easier than ever before. Make sure to download an audiobook or some podcasts to listen to as you drive. Choose things that interest you, and enjoy being able to learn as you work, or just be entertained. If audiobooks or podcasts aren’t your thing, make a fun playlist of music instead. Choose songs you will sing along to, as this will help keep you alert.
Sleep Properly
Being slightly tired can cause an accident, so getting proper sleep is crucial. While on the road, you may find yourself in different places, which means different sleeping arrangements. Consider taking your own pillow with you on the road; this will help you sleep on any mattress more comfortably. Or consider taking a whole sleep setup for your truck – this way, you will have a reliable, comfy bed every night.
Look Ahead
While driving long haul routes, it is important to look ahead on the road. This means scanning the road ahead for any potential hazards. The earlier you can spot debris on the road, cars slowing down, animals, or dangerous drivers, the more time you have to react. Make sure to also keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you. This should be at least a 4-second gap in nice weather and a 6-second gap in bad weather.
Have a Backup Plan
Being stuck in traffic is frustrating, especially when you have a deadline to meet. Make sure to always have a backup plan or alternative route option for your journey. This can help reduce the time you spend just sitting and make sure that you can stay moving. After all, just sitting for an hour or two can make you tired and cause additional issues when it comes to focusing on the road.
Staying alert throughout your long haul drive is crucial to avoid accidents. Implementing these habits ensures that you continue to be a high-performing long haul driver with a focus on safety.
Classic Transport Drivers Thrive on Safety
All long haul drivers working with Classic Transport are encouraged to put safety above all else. In fact, Classic Transport has one the industry’s highest ranking CSA scores with consistently low accident rates and limited cargo damage. All drivers undergo safety training regularly, and safe miles are rewarded at certain milestones. Learn more about becoming a long haul driver with Classic Transport today.