Getting to Your Destination Faster Does Not Always Mean Safer: Safety Tips for Long Hauls

When you live the life of a trucker, doing long-hauls is something that becomes somewhat of a routine, but for your first run you may be tempted to book it all the way home. Even if you’re anxious to get into your familiar bed, you should never speed your way to your destination. Here are 10 safety tips for keeping you protected when doing a long-haul.

1. Wear Your Seatbelt
   This one’s a bit of a no-brainer. If you’re behind the wheel be sure to buckle up and protect yourself. If you’re driving on a long-haul with a fellow passenger, make sure they have their seatbelt on as well. Not only is this the law, but it could very well save your life.

2. Don’t Speed
   It may be a little more than tempting to put the pedal to the metal when you’re on the road and want to get home, but remember that speeding not only puts your life in danger, but also puts others at risk. This is especially dangerous on dark roads and in unfamiliar territory.

3. Get Some Sleep
   Just not while you’re driving! Excessive driving, especially on long-hauls when you’re traveling solo, can get tiresome. Your eyes, body, and mind all start to wander. In order to be sure you’re the safest you can be while out on the open road, be sure to get a good night’s rest the night before, and if you feel like you could use a couple extra Z’s, pull off to a truck stop or appropriate parking area and have a power nap.

4. Take Regular Breaks
   Even if you’re not especially tired, it will do your body good to take scheduled breaks every couple of hours. Use the bathroom, fuel up on coffee or food, stretch your legs, and then head back out there.

5. Check Your Vehicle
   Keep a good eye on your gas gauge. Nobody likes running out of gas in the middle of a long truck run when you have no idea where the next gas station is. Also, whenever you’re stopped for a break be sure to check your vehicle to ensure you have a clean window, your fluids are filled, and your tires are properly inflated.

6. Get Traffic Updates
   Phones are used for more than just texting, these days. While pulled over on your scheduled break be sure to check for traffic updates through your cellphone, or via local radio. This will let you know if any adjustments have to be made to your route before heading back out there.

7. Put Your Cell Phone Down
   If you’re not pulled over on the side of the road, keep your cell phone out of reach. Sure, these little pieces of technology are useful – but not when you’re driving. Keep your eyes on the prize, and remember it is illegal to text while driving in over 30 states, including Ohio.

8. Have Something to Listen To
   Driving without a partner can get boring after a time. Fight drowsiness with some of your favorite music, audiobooks, or radio shows.

9. Have a Map Handy
   Technology has made traveling extremely convenient, but don’t discount your map yet. While a GPS is a great resource for drivers, technology isn’t always reliable. Batteries can die, or your device may just stop working. Have a map handy with your route marked clearly on it, just in case.

10. Know Our Number
    For quick turnaround service in the Ohio area, be sure to know our number for Truck Spring Repair and Maintenance. For any troubles you’re having in the Ohio area, call (800) 619-4652 and we’ll get you back on your feet.