As the holiday season falls upon us, many truck drivers are driving throughout the country to deliver important parcels and packages throughout the country. Due to the commonality of inclement weather during December months, it’s essential that truck drivers throughout the country understand the vital safety tips that can help them keep protected during these long haul drives. In this blog entry, the towing experts here at Chicago Towing will detail some essential tips for truck driving during the holiday season.
Make Sure Fuel Tanks are Always Full
Make sure to keep your fuel tank full during the holiday season in order to prevent the accumulation of condensation within the tank. This moisture build up can stall your truck and prevent it from starting – as well as potentially corroding the mechanisms of your engine, or even warping the frame of the truck itself. Fully filled fuel tanks can also add weight to your tires which helps improve your truck’s traction on the road.
Don’t Change Lanes Often
This is especially important when in cold areas. Don’t change lanes often as just one sip on black ice can dangerously impact your driving. Trucks often have blind spots, so it’s dangerous to change lanes often even in non cold environments. So especially when it’s slippery on the road, try to stay in a single lane as much as possible.
Be a Patient Driver when in Rain or Snow
Add extra time to your trips so you can drive slower in rainy or snowy environments – as well as other precipitation that may slow your driving or cause it to be dangerous. Just stay patient in driving slowly – remember you’ll still go to your destination on time. It’s much smarter, not to mention safer, to drive slower.
Take Periodic Driving Breaks
Long trips in driving, especially in rain or snow, can be more exhausting than long drives in the summer. Make sure to take breaks when driving and allow yourself to sleep, especially on long haul truck drives. Breaks will help you stay awake and alert – and never drive more than 11 hours straight without sleeping!
