According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Summer and early Fall are the most dangerous times to drive on US roadways. The 14-year study also concluded that most deaths occur between 3 pm to 7 pm.
With the hustle and bustle of summer vacations, and heat waves running through the US, it’s important to consider the following tips to keep both you and those around you safe.
4 Summer Safety Tips for Truck Drivers
1. Keep Hydrated
Dehydration poses a real risk. Not getting enough water can cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Lack of proper water intake can also harm your kidneys. It’s known that working on-the-go limits healthy food options. Common on-the-go foods such as chips and beef jerky contain high levels of sodium. High sodium levels in the short term can lead to headaches, over the long term it can lead to high blood pressure. To help your kidney’s flush this extra out of your body, please drink more water!
According to the Mayo Clinic, men should drink about 15.5 cups of water a day, and women should drink about 11.5 cups of water a day.
2. Watch out for construction
With more people traveling in the summer, there is a lot of maintenance being done on the roadways, hence more construction zones in the summer. In fact, many universities begin their construction projects in the summer since it’s the off season for students.
Be on the lookout for these areas and their speed limit signs. Fines are increased in construction zones. Most times, Google Maps will identify construction zones on your route.
3. Look out for your tire pressure
The worst thing that could happen to anyone whether in a regular car or semi-truck is having a tire blowout. It just so happens that Summer is also the season for tire blowouts. Yes, it’s true that heat makes air expand, which leads to increased tire pressure. Because of this, people assume that they should underinflate their tires. That is incorrect! Underinflating tires is what causes a blowout. Underinflation decreases the amount your truck can carry. This leads to overloading and a possible blowout.
Your recommended PSI is what your tire pressure should be before you start driving. It may increase as you drive because of the heat, but don’t give in to the temptation of releasing air. Its best practice to check tire pressure whenever you can.
4. Sunscreen & Sunglasses are Important
Even inside your cab UV rays can still reach you and cause sun damage. Include applying sunscreen to your daily routine, but more importantly, make sure you are applying enough (found on the back of the bottle).
In 2018, Consumer Reports ranked Equate Sport Lotion SPF 50 and Trader Joe’s Spray SPF 50+ as part of their recommended sunscreens.
What most people don’t know is that UV rays can also harm the eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV rays (UV-A & UV-B) can lead to cataracts or macular degeneration. The American Optometric Association suggests that your sunglasses block out 99% to 100% of both UV-A and UV-B radiation.
A Trucking Family That Cares
Want to become part of a trucking company that cares about your safety? Look no further!
Mid South Transport Inc . is a Memphis based trucking company that is hiring drivers all across the Mid-South. Some of the benefits that come with the Mid South Transport family include affordable single or family medical and dental insurance, a $15,000 life insurance policy, and a safe driving bonus.
Contact us at (901)-332-8600 ext. 118 for career opportunities!
