We are sure that you are very well aware that summer is here in full force. Whether you have recently received your CDL license or are a seasoned veteran, you will want to take precautions as the summer continues to heat up. We know you are putting in a lot of hours on the road, maybe even in areas with record-breaking high temperatures. Even though you are in your vehicle, you still face the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, overheating, and even heat stroke. Summer means a whole new set of issues for those in the trucking industry so to help here is how to stay cool and survive summer trucking.
How to Stay Cool And Survive Summer Trucking
Sitting in a hot cab all day long can be brutal and even dangerous to your health. Follow these tips to beat the summer heat while driving your trucking business to new levels.
Stay Hydrated
It is easy to forget to drink water while on the road, however, it is critical to stay adequately hydrated particularly during these next two months. Keeping a few bottles of water within reach while driving will serves as a constant reminder and make it practical for you to drink water throughout your drive. Also, it is worth mentioning that sodas and other carbonated drinks are no substitution for drinking water. The sugar and caffeine in sodas will dehydrate you and will not replace the fluids you are losing while you sweat.
Check Your Tires Constantly
The chances of tire blowouts increase dramatically during the summer months because of the high temperatures. What you can do to try and prevent this is to check that your tires are adequately inflated each time you stop for a required break or when you are pulling out in the morning. Under-inflated tires are more likely to blowout, so it is essential to be prepared.
Check Traffic Reports
Families, teenagers, and college students are all hitting the road during summer vacation, so it is crucial that you stay on the lookout during all hours of the day. You should remain alert and cautious while on the road this season. Heavier traffic means more danger for truck drivers, so you will want to check the traffic report and be aware of your surroundings.
Check Your Brakes
Hot summer temperatures can lead to brakes fading or even losing friction when brake components can’t absorb any additional heat. Always be sure to check your brakes to make sure they are functioning correctly before leaving on your next haul. It is recommended that you bring spare brake pads before leaving home. This will not only potentially save you but also some money because you won’t have to pay the service center.
Protect Yourself From The Sun
Spending several hours a day driving means you will have a lot of sun exposure on your left side. Don’t believe that just because you are in your cab that you are protected from the sun. While the sun is shining through your window, it is still a serious health risk that can lead to sunburns and even skin cancer. We recommend you wear a long sleeve shirt, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as much as possible while on the road.
Bring a Hardhat
Because of the warmer temperatures, more construction companies will be out working on the roads. You should always be careful when passing through construction zones and remember that the Get Over law is still in effect in every state. It is required by law that if you see an emergency vehicle or someone on the side of the road you must get over or slow down. Your rig is likely over 55,000 Ibs, and it does not stop on a dime, make sure to hit the breaks sooner rather than later.
Fines and other fees also skyrocket in construction areas, and likely officers are waiting to get someone. We don’t want it to be you.
Also, bring a brightly colored hardhat with you on the road. People are statistically more likely to take notice of you on the roadside if are wearing a hard hat. If by some unfortunate circumstance you find yourself on the side of the road, be sure to wear it.
Have a Great Safe Summer
While summer is hot and we like it, UV rays and high temperatures can do a number on our bodies! So remember to protect yourself while you are either hauling or enjoying a well-deserved vacation.
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If you have yet to file your HVUT Form 2290 click here to learn more! The Form 2290 due date is August 31st. Trust us you don’t want to be late and have to pay insane IRS penalties and fees.