For Large

Truck Drivers:

Safety during

Long-

Distance

Trips

In 2012, The U.S.

Department of

Transportation

recorded 3,921

fatalities and

104,000 injuries in

crashes that

involve large trucks. What’s more

staggering about these statistics is that

the number of fatalities has increased

by 4 percent since 2011. This only

proves that despite the requirement for

Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL),

accidents are bound to happen. And the

causes of such misfortunes usually

include human error or mechanical

problems.While probability dictates that

accidents can and will happen, drivers

can lower the numbers. Here are some

tips on how drivers can reduce the risks

of getting involved in a road mishap.

They are particularly directed to those

who regularly go on long-distance

journeys.

Mind the Space Cushion

This is one of the very first things

taught at driving schools, but it’s

perhaps the most overlooked factor.

Space cushion refers to the amount

of space around the truck. Drivers

should monitor it every now and then

to make sure the truck is not too

close to other vehicles or objects on

all sides.

Consider the Diet

Drivers are

almost

stationary

during the

entire duration

of a trip. As

they are sitting

longer than

usual, they should choose food that

will help them get through the drive.

The ideal meal is packed with

carbohydrates, proteins, and

nutrients that offer lasting energy.

They should avoid greasy food,

however. What they should consume

includes lean

chicken meat,

whole-wheat

breads, salads,

soups, fruits,

juices, and water.

Stay Awake

The right diet

can keep

drivers awake,

but there are

still other

ways that will

keep them

alert and always in their element.

They can open the windows or turn

the knob of their air conditioner to

prevent the space from getting cozy.

Drivers may also turn their radio or

music player on. But if there are

instances when staying awake is

difficult, they should pull over and

rest.

Plan the Trip

Long-distance journeys require

planning. A plan can help drivers

come up with safe driving decisions

and avoid situations that may

endanger them or others. A typical

plan covers the weather, road

conditions, and traffic bottlenecks.

The longer the journey is, the more

chances of encountering dangerous

situations. Drivers should be

properly

trained,

and should

have a

plan and

trusty

measures

to avoid

accidents.

SOURCES:

http://www-

nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/811868.pdf

http://www.cdtschool.com

http://www.webmd.com/sleep-

disorders/excessive-sleepiness-10/natural-

tips-sleepiness?page=2