Trucking in summer

Safe SUMMER TRUCKING Tips and Tricks for Truck Driver

Safety is the most important aspect for truckers as they have to carry and transport loads in any atmospheric and weather conditions. These conditions vary from time to time and pose different risks in front of the truckers. The weather conditions are dangerous for truckers as well as the other drivers that are on the road.

The journey for truckers can be long so the surroundings and atmosphere will change continuously throughout the journey. So, they must be prepared for any situation before they hit the road. They might face rain or snow or windy condition while they are on the journey. So there are some important aspects to consider while summer trucking as well.

A lot of focus is given to the snowy conditions or winter flatbed driving but summer weather should not be neglected as the heat can be very harmful to mechanical components. Hence, it becomes important to take adequate measures in order to protect the trucks from the blistering heat and dangerous summer weather.

Also Read: Essentials Truck Driver Needs

Truckers face a lot of difficulties in summer as there are a lot of things that they must take care of. For example, the pressure of the tire must be checked constantly throughout the journey because high temperatures can affect the tires and the pressure in them. Proper maintenance of all the mechanical systems is necessary before using the truck in summer. There are various other issues that are faced by truckers like congestion and construction.

Top Tips for Safe Summer Trucking:

Here are some of the tips that must be taken and followed for safe summer trucking.

1. Be Prepared for Storms:

Storms are unpredictable and unavoidable and you can face them almost anywhere across the country. These storms can be very dangerous and harmful and can lead to hail, strong winds, lightning, etc. This can damage the truck and the equipment that it carries. Tires are very important and play a major role when there is a storm.

Storm in summer

It can provide resistance and protect you from storms. Tires must have adequate pressure and reliable treads that will keep the truckers and the load that they are carrying safe by providing a better grip. You must also make sure that the breaks are in good condition. High temperatures can damage the break so it is important to check them regularly.

2. Make Sure your Cab Stays Cool:

Cab should be protected from the sun rays and the heat. This will allow you to stay cool in higher temperatures. Cab must be secured with the help of a sun shield and there should also be a cover for the steering wheel. It will keep the cab cool and secure it from getting too hot.

If the cab is not protected from sunlight and heat then it is very harmful to your health. Also, make sure that you have sufficient water bottles with you that can keep you hydrated throughout the journey. It is necessary to stay hydrated in the summer.

3. Check-Up the Equipment to Carry:

Equipment to Carry

Equipments that are transported by the truckers must be safe and should be secured. If the load is carried in an open container then it is exposed to a lot of harmful conditions like wind, dust, rain, snow, heat, etc. They must not be damaged because of any atmospheric or weather conditions or else the journey will be of no use because the main aim is to carry and deliver the load safely.

So, the equipment or load must be adequately tied down and covered. Sufficient tie-down straps must be used for the strengthening of load. Cover protects the load from harmful rays and overheating of equipment. Make sure that the equipments are not damaged in the journey.

4. Pay Attention to Work Zones:

trucks on a road

During the summer season, there is a lot of construction work going on. So you have to choose an alternate path, which consumes less time. Always be alert and cautious while you are driving through work zones to avoid any accidents. Drive slow in such areas because many workers are working out there and you don’t want to hit them. Plan your route properly and check if you will need to select an alternate road because of construction areas. Select the alternate routes before you begin the journey in order to save time and money.

Also Read: Trucker’s Guide to Staying Awake on the Road

5. Pay Attention to Other Cars or Vehicles on Road:

During the summer season, there is a vacation and people go on trips with their friends and family. So, there will be a lot of traffic on the road. Make sure to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles on the road.

cars on the road with truck

Also, the load must be properly secured because if the load falls while traveling then it will be very hazardous for other vehicles traveling on the road. Drive safely in the traffic to avoid any accidents throughout the journey.

6. Carry the Things that Keeps you Cool:

Keep yourself Hydrated for summer trucking

Always keep things that will help you in staying cool throughout the journey. Summer trucking or traveling in summer can be very difficult because of the heat. You can easily be dehydrated in the journey so make sure to carry cold large water bottles. Keep your body covered to protect it from harmful UV rays. Also, carry some snacks with you and eat them at regular intervals. This will help you in staying energetic.

Conclusion:

These are some of the important points that must be considered as tips for truckers. Summer is a difficult season for truckers and hence it is important to stay prepared for any dangerous conditions.