Truck Drivers Offer Safety Tips for Holiday Travel
Truck drivers spend their lives on the road, hauling precious cargo from one destination to another more than two thirds of the year. During holiday season, they have to share the road with more than 84 million other motorists who are hitting the roadways to visit friends and family. For everyone, safe travel is paramount.
If you’re going to be piling into the car and motoring any great distance to visit those special to you, make sure you’re prepared for the journey ahead. Take into account the following tips, directly from the experts who make freight transportation in Aurora, CO possible throughout the rest of the year.
Preparedness
Channel your inner Boy Scout before you hit the road by adopting their time-tested motto: “Be prepared.” Make sure your vehicle doesn’t need any last-minute maintenance (oil change, brakes, wipers, etc.) and that you’ve got a full tank of gas. Many drivers find themselves broken down on the side of the road due to vehicle troubles each holiday season. Make sure you’re not one of them!
In addition to preparing your vehicle for travel, prepare your body as well. Make sure you’re getting a full night’s rest before going any great distance. Eat a healthy breakfast to keep yourself alert, and make sure you’ve got a bottle of water riding shotgun to stay properly hydrated. If you’re going for more than 3 or 4 hours at a stretch, pack a snack!
Finally, have an emergency kit packed and ready to go in your trunk. Include all of the essentials: blankets, flashlights, bottled water, flares, spare batteries, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, first aid kit and anything else you might find yourself needing in an emergency.
Stay Alert on the Road
Your safety out on the road depends on your alertness and awareness. The best thing you can do while you’re traveling is to always be aware of your surroundings—where cars are in relation to you on the road, what signage is present, lane configurations and more. Always use your turn signals and practice good distance management when following or passing. Do your best to make sure your mirrors are always adjusted properly and be sure to always check your blind spot, while being aware of other vehicles’ blind spots as well.
Expect the Unexpected
Accidents are called that for a reason: no one wants or tries to get into one! The best way to avoid ending up in one yourself is to always expect the unexpected. For example, avoid dangerous road conditions (ice, freezing rain) by checking the weather ahead of leaving. Or, check for construction along your intended route and re-plan accordingly to avoid it.
Stay Safe
Family and friends are the best thing about this wonderful holiday season. To enjoy your time with them to the fullest, make sure you’re traveling safely and smartly. Always buckle up, never drive under the influence and be patient and kind out on the road. You may not relish your time in the car, but it’ll all be worth it when you get to your destination. Take it from the pros: truckers who spend their lives out on the road, managing freight transportation in Aurora, CO.
