Truck Driving Tips For Long Distances
Driving a truck is not an easy matter. For those who are used to driving a car, driving a truck is a very different matter. Generally, trucks will travel long distances to distribute various necessities and the burden they carry is not light. This causes the truck to have a very limited speed. No wonder the driver must have patience in driving a truck.
In addition, driving a truck also has a big risk. Fortunately, all trucks and variants from UD Trucks as well as other truck brands pay attention to this. The truck cabin from UD Trucks is equipped with air conditioning so that the driver is more comfortable and minimizes the pollution that is inhaled during the trip, as well as increasing safety because it can avoid crimes that can occur when the windows are open. Driver comfort is also supported by a driver-oriented cabin and lots of storage space.
Meanwhile, for the safety of truck drivers, the UD Truck cabin has gone through a cabin crash test which will minimize the risk of injury if something unexpected happens during the trip. However, there are still things to consider when you want to drive a truck. So here are tips for driving trucks for long distances.
Check truck condition
Even though you already have roadworthiness, there's nothing wrong with you as a driver doing a double check on the condition of the truck. There are several components that must be checked when you want to drive a truck for long distances.
- First, check the pressure and condition of the tires. Because it rubs directly against the asphalt, of course, the tires must be in top condition, especially with the heavy loads and long distances.
- Second, don't forget to check the braking conditions. There have been many cases of truck accidents caused by faulty brakes. By re-checking the brakes, you have reduced the risk that might save your own life and that of others.
- Third, when asked to carry a load, it never hurts to ask the contents and the total load being transported. Overloading can endanger yourself and other road users.
Not only that, you could be dismissed by officers for violating the rules which will eventually hinder the trip.
Adequate sleep and rest
Sounds trivial but this is important enough to maintain stamina when driving a truck for long distances. Before the trip, you should get enough sleep about 7-8 hours. Long trips will take up a lot of stamina. With enough sleep you are not easily stressed while traveling.
Pull over when sleepy
Drowsiness while driving is also one of the factors that cause road accidents. Therefore, if you feel you are getting sleepy, there is no harm in stopping the truck in a safe place and resting for a while. It is not recommended to hold back drowsiness because it can cause microsleep.
Microsleep or is an event of loss of consciousness of the brain controlling the body due to very short sleep, the duration is only between one to 30 seconds.
This symptom is similar to daydreaming or stupor, so it can attack anyone. It usually occurs when the brain is working stagnant, such as driving long distances.
It is fairly short, only about half a minute. However, if you are driving a truck, it will certainly result in a fatal accident.
One second off guard on the highway at a speed of 60 kilometers per hour, the truck will slide 17 meters. The truck may hit another vehicle in front, slide out of control, get off the track and hit a road divider, or be hit by another vehicle from behind. Very dangerous isn't it?
Cut down on caffeinated drinks
Drowsiness while driving a truck is often circumvented by drinking caffeinated beverages such as coffee.
Coffee does provide a fresh effect thanks to the caffeine content in it. But it turns out the effect is only momentary for the body. The effect of coffee can make stomach acid rise. Then when the effects of caffeine wear off, the body will return to being tired and dehydrated. This effect will certainly reduce concentration when driving.
Obey traffic rules
Not only driving trucks, it seems that every road user is obliged to obey traffic rules. But especially when driving a truck there is a slight difference. For example, keep driving in the left lane so that faster vehicles can overtake safely.
In addition, always give a signal when you want to turn or change lanes. Because the truck has a large body with many blind spots. It could be that when you want to turn or change lanes there is a vehicle behind that is not visible in the rearview mirror.
Always remember family at home
Always remember that family at home can be a motivation for those of you who often drive trucks for long distances. Of course, the family at home will always be waiting for your arrival and return. That way, you will always put safety first.
Then, don't forget to always pray for security and safety. That way the work will be more sincere and blessed. Always remember, driving a truck is a lawful and noble job because it fulfills the needs of many people.
Always obey traffic rules and stay safe on the road!