Truck drivers work under stressful conditions and can encounter serious health issues due to their profession. Many truck drivers don’t realize how many problems arise from their job until after they suffer from chronic health issues. It’s essential to follow 10 helpful tips provided below to ensure you stay healthy while driving long hours.
Avoid drinking on the road
If you get behind the wheel of a vehicle that has been drinking, there’s a risk your memory will be impaired. The more you drive, the greater your chance of getting sick. If you find yourself in such a situation, you should immediately plan your route around towns where you know alcohol sales are prohibited. You might consider switching routes altogether or taking a rest stop so you can sleep off your hangover.
Keep up with your physical fitness exercise routine
While driving is one of the most dangerous things you can do, it is also an excellent time to get some exercise. Your body gets tired when you drive for long periods of time. It’s easy to fall into bad habits while on the road, but making sure you keep up your regular exercise routine is very important.
Eat well
Truck drivers generally eat junk food during their shifts and then crash at night before going home. This won’t do much to prevent car sickness, because your body needs fuel to function properly, but it will make you feel miserable if you have a headache the next day. Try eating healthier items like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and yogurt instead of fast foods.
Pay attention to weather conditions
Weather is an important factor to consider when you start your trip. In cold weather, your engine oil may freeze, which could cause damage that results in expensive repairs. In hot temperatures, overheating is a problem too. Therefore, you must pay great attention to the temperature outside. Also, you need to pay special attention to rain and snowfall – avoid any unexpected delays or detours.
See more: https://ezcustomgifts.com/8-must-know-tips-for-truck-drivers-during-hurricane-season/
Be wary of distractions
When driving, it’s important to watch out for other vehicles, pedestrians, and animals and avoid distractions. All these factors could result in accidents. However, we often have mobile phones and GPS devices with us when we drive, so it’sa not unusual to see people texting while driving. Make sure you use them responsibly and only talk to the person sitting beside you.
Check out our trucker blogs for more useful trucker tips.
Be careful not to rush
There is always a danger of rushing the driver ahead of you if you’re caught in traffic. Rushing makes you less attentive to the road. If possible, try and wait until the roads clear before passing lorries. If this isn’t feasible, slow down as much as required to pass safely.
See more: https://ezcustomgifts.com/10-tips-on-how-to-ace-your-truck-driving-interview/
Drive slower at night
Even when you’re not driving, the road can still affect your mood. Driving in the dark will bring about a lot of stress which may even lead to car sickness. You can ease the effects of night-driving by trying to take shorter trips or using a light at your rear view mirror. Also, look for places like rest stops or petrol stations to have a break for a few minutes.
Check your tires regularly
A truck tire can blow out very quickly. This could cause a chain reaction that brings about a major accident. Before starting your trip, check the pressure in all tires. Wear appropriate footwear that supports your feet and protects against road debris. If you notice a problem that might harm your vehicle, pull over immediately and contact someone who can help.
Don’t smoke in your truck
Your health is just as critical as that of the trucks following you. Smoking is dangerous for your lungs because you inhale the tar and nicotine every time you puff away. Smokers rarely think of the risks they pose to their own health and those driving alongside them .
Enjoy each drive
The road is often the best place to have fun when you’re bored. Go for hikes, enjoy the sunshine or play outdoor sports – anything that gives something new to experience is good for your mental state.
