Tips to Overcome Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is one of the most dangerous factors of driving. Applicable to virtually any driver on the road, this condition is not solely exclusive to long haul journeys. Also known as drowsy driving, driver’s fatigue is most common during normal sleeping hours but can occur at any time when the necessary amounts of rest aren’t taken. To avoid serious injury to yourself and others, managing driver’s fatigue is a top priority for a great truck driver. Here are four easy tips to help you stay awake while on the road.
1. Keep Your Mind Busy
Staying focused and avoiding drifting off into the space of a dream is arguably the most important safety tip for a driver. The slightest distraction can potentially create a slew of negative outcomes. One of the best ways to avoid this and stay sharp is to choose an entertaining podcast. This will keep the mind going without drifting out of reality on the road.
2. Determine When You Feel Comfortable Driving
Whether you prefer the light of the sun or the moon, the same safety tips apply at all times of the day. Every driver will have their own opinion on when the best time to drive is, but both day and night driving have their pros and cons. Determining when you feel most comfortable driving depends on your own personal preferences and experience. No matter what you choose, always go at your own pace and don’t push yourself. Patience is a virtue and your safety is most important.
3. Stretch it Out
Feeling tired and drowsy are common traits of long hours in a relatively sedentary position. Often all that is needed is to exercise so you can get the blood flowing and create more energy. Find a safe place to park your truck and take a break by performing some truck driver exercises in the outdoors before hitting the road again.
4. Turn Down the Heat
We’ve all been in a scenario where we’re sitting in a room and it’s so warm that you just want to fall asleep. Unfortunately, this doesn’t just happen at meetings but inside of your truck too. Turning up the heat obviously make you more comfortable, but the warmth isn’t too great for driving. The goal here is to of course not freeze yourself but acknowledge how too much heat can impair your driving. Try opening the window a little to let some air into the cab and get some additional oxygen flow every once and a while. The shock of the cold air will keep you awake and attentive.
Symptoms of Driver’s Fatigue
Driver fatigue affects your driving in ways that create obvious danger. Staying awake for extended periods of time lessens your driving skill to that of a drunk driver. Slow reaction times, no concentration and poor judgment or completely falling asleep are just some of the most notable affects. Drowsy driving feels very similar to average fatigue, whether you’re at the wheel or not. These noticeable symptoms may include one or a large combination of the following:
- Heavy eyes
- Gradual increase or decrease of speed
- Poor driving performance
- Impatience
- Lack of motivation
Apply for a Truck Driving Job with National Retail Systems, Inc.
Preventing driver’s fatigue all begins by upholding personal safety tips that you’ve set for yourself. Respectful driving is necessary, but treating your body right is equally as important. Without taking only the healthiest anti-sleep inducing steps, you could become a hazard to yourself and everyone else on the road around you. National Retail Systems, Inc. takes pride in our dedicated fleet of drivers that promote the most efficient driving techniques. For over 65 years, we’ve been providing businesses with lean logistics service all made possible through our trucking divisions. National Retail Systems, Inc. welcomes drivers to join our fleet and build a rewarding career. Contact us for more information about our current job posts or any additional information you may need. We’re excited to grow with you and we hope to hear from you soon!
The Ultimate 3PL
National Retail Systems, Inc. (NRS) includes Keystone Freight Corp. & National Retail Transportation, Inc. (NRT). NRS is an asset based 3PL that has been providing logistics services for the World’s leading retail companies for 60+ years. Our hub locations include: New York & New Jersey; Los Angeles, CA; Inland Empire, CA; Savannah, GA; Columbus, OH; Greensboro, NC; and Baltimore, MD.