The Secret to Driving the Long Haul

Truck drivers know that sometimes the road can be hard. Not only because of the weather, road conditions and other driver propose challenges left, right, and centre but because hitting the road by yourself for long periods of time can be more difficult than most people would expect. Next to accessorizing your vehicle to make it more comfortable or upgrading your current light or medium duty truck to a newer model there are a few things you absolutely must do when setting out. If you or your crew members tend to be on the highway for long stretches remember to take breaks, take a breath and plan a head.

Take a Break

While you know some breaks are more than essential, besides the rest stop break and mandatory sleep stops it’s important to take a break just for you and your body. It’s easy to get fatigued when staring at the centre line for hours on end and aches and pains will inevitably settle in. Taking additional breaks gives you time for stretches or exercises, give you the opportunity to clear your mind and are crucial to staying safe on the road. Ultimately, taking preventative breaks that keep your body limber and your mind sharp will save you lost time in the future. Lots of drivers say that their deadlines are often prioritized over taking those one or two extra stops but it’s well worth changing your priorities.

Take a Breath

Patience grasshopper. Dealing with the driving abilities (or lack of them) of other drivers  is frustrating. Compound that frustration with being on the road for hours on end and you’re asking for a tension. Learning to let go of other people’s lack of road savvy and taking the previous tip into consideration (take a break) while easier said than done, will help you relax and move forward, both mentally and on your journey. Your anger will translate into your driving, how you interact with those around you and the decisions you make down the road so learning to let go of those frustrations will help you both in the cab and off the road. I know, easier said than done but trust us, it works off the road too!

Plan Ahead

When was the last time things went exactly how they were supposed to? Plan ahead and being prepared for bad weather, rocky conditions or vehicle maintenance and repairs so you can let go of the anxieties that come with the unexpected. Packing kits such as winter weather driving kit and doing regular inspections will arm you with the knowledge of your truck and the road ahead and eventually, as much as we don’t want them to, they will come in handy. Plan ahead for breaks, snacks and exercises to give yourself something to look forward to besides finishing the job.

Driving a light, medium of heavy duty truck is no walk in the park. When you are driving the long haul it’s important to develop a strategy that works for you and your company. Take the time to plan breaks, take them when they’re needed and learn to brush off the small stuff and be patient. You’ll leave some of the stress in your dust. If you’re looking for more tips on driving, information on leasing a commercial truck or buying a new Hino truck, contact the team at Somerville Hino!