Truck Driver Summer Safety Tips

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Every season comes with its own unique truck driving challenges and considerations.  

 

Summer is no exception, with the annual increase of vacation traffic, intense weather conditions, and safety concerns.  

 

From overheating engines to sun glare and dehydration, keep reading to find out some of the best tips to staying cool and driving safely this summer.  

 

What Makes Summer Trucking Different? 

Understanding what makes summer driving conditions different from the rest of the year is key to being prepared and staying safe all season long.  

 

Increased traffic is one of the main causes of accidents and safety concerns during the summer months. With more drivers on the roads, including family vacationers and teens with summer jobs, the risk of accidents rises. Be especially vigilant for potentially inexperienced drivers, such as those with out-of-state license plates, as well as RVs or cars towing trailers. 

 

Construction projects also increase in frequency during the summer, leading to traffic congestion and accidents. It’s important to stay alert in construction zones and be aware of changing traffic patterns to avoid fines and ensure safety. Keep an eye out for reduced speed limits, lane shifts, and workers on the road, and always follow posted signs and signals. 

 

Changing weather conditions are likely the first thing that comes to mind when summer begins. However, it’s crucial to also consider the significant impact this can have on driving. High temperatures can affect both drivers and vehicles, and these concerns should be taken seriously throughout the season. Additionally, summer marks the start of hurricane and tornado seasons, which can bring severe weather and challenging driving conditions. 

 

Tips for Summer Safety  

Taking all of these unique conditions into account, here are some important tips to consider before getting behind the wheel this summer.  

 

Plan ahead.

With more drivers on the road and an increase in unsafe conditions, it’s important to minimize risks and save time whenever possible. Use data-driven websites and mobile apps to plan routes that avoid predicted traffic, construction zones, and popular vacation spots.  

 

Be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecasts as well, checking for chances of major storms or heavy flooding. Have a backup plan prepared in case of inclement weather, and don’t be afraid to pull off and let a storm pass. It’s always better to lose a few minutes than put yourself at risk by driving in dangerous conditions.  

 

Take care of yourself.

Even if your truck has AC, you aren’t immune to the potentially dangerous effects of summer heat. Hydration is important year round, but it becomes even more crucial during the summer months when you sweat more often.  Incorporate hydrating foods like watermelon, strawberries, and cucumbers into your diet to replenish your body.

Sunscreen is another summer essential, as UV rays can penetrate truck windows. Applying sunscreen daily will greatly reduce your risk of skin cancer. Additionally, protect your eyes with sunglasses or a hat to lower the chances of serious problems like cataracts. 

 

Take care of your truck.

Heat isn’t just potentially dangerous for people, it can also have a significant impact on vehicles.  

 

Summer heat can lead to tire blowouts, so it’s crucial to monitor your tire pressure regularly. Idling engines can overheat, making it important to keep an eye on coolant levels. High temperatures can also cause brake fading, reducing friction and braking efficiency, so inspect your brakes frequently. Additionally, maintaining a clean windshield is essential for better visibility, especially with increased sun glare. Paying close attention to these pre-trip inspection items can help you navigate summer disruptions more smoothly. 

 

Be patient.

The real key to safe driving in the summer is patience. Allot extra time for every run, since traffic patterns and weather conditions can be especially unpredictable during the summer months. Drive slow in construction zones, and be cautious and defensive in areas likely to be full of tourists. Remember to always stay calm and manage stress by taking breaks when needed.  

 

 

 

For more information on trucking jobs and industry tips and tricks, be sure to read the rest of our Truck Driver blog posts and connect with us on social media.  

Black Ice: Essential Safety Tips for Winter Driving

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Truckers face many challenges on the road, but rarely is something as unpredictable and difficult as driving during the winter.  

 

When dealing with intense weather conditions, icy roads, reduced visibility, or other hazards, driving a truck requires a specific set of skills and precautions, as well as the right equipment and supplies. 

 

Keep reading to learn winter driving tips and tricks for CDL drivers, and some of the essential gear that you should always have in your truck during the cold months. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a new driver, these tips are sure to keep you safe and comfortable on the road this winter.  

 

Be Prepared for Anything  

Safety should be every driver’s priority year round, but winter driving calls for another level of caution and preparation. Road conditions in the winter can be unpredictable and fast changing, which means you should be prepared for the worst every time you hit the road.  

 

To better prepare yourself for any situation, double check that you have the following items each time you depart: 

  • Always keep at least a half full tank of gas. Sudden weather changes could mean taking longer, alternative routes or stopping on the side of the road until it’s clear. This also helps keep fuel from freezing.  
  • Windshield scraper. This might seem obvious, but it’s important to double check. Always keep your windshield clear of snow or ice.  
  • Jumper cables. You don’t want to be stuck with a dead battery when it’s freezing out.  
  • A bag of salt, sand, or kitty litter. Any of these would be useful to spread on the ground and create friction if your truck gets stuck in snow or ice.  
  • Heavy duty winter clothes and blankets. You never know what could happen, and you don’t want to be underdressed or under prepared in case of an emergency. Remember jackets, gloves, a hat, socks, and waterproof boots.  
  • Flashlight and Flares. You’ll want a sturdy flashlight that can stand cold weather in case you get stranded and need to signal. Flares are also helpful to alert others to yield.  
  • Extra food and water. If you find yourself waiting out a storm, or waiting for roadside assistance, you won’t want to be without either of these essentials.  

 

Check Conditions and Forecasts Frequently 

Although even the weatherman gets it wrong sometimes, it’s important to stay up-to-date on potential weather changes and road conditions. Keep an eye on the forecast and closed routes by radio, GPS systems, your phone, or by calling into dispatch.  

 

Thorough Inspections 

Pre-trip vehicle inspections should look a little different during winter months. Each time before hitting the road, be sure to check these features: 

  • Fluid levels and fuel. This will keep them from potentially freezing or running low.  
  • Tires. Check for pressure, wear, and balance. Install winter tires or carry snow chains if you even have a chance of encountering wintery conditions.  
  • Brakes. They are extremely important when potentially facing icy or slick roads.  
  • Lights. Visibility is reduced for many reasons throughout the winter, which means you need to keep an eye on all lights, including brake lights and turn signals.  
  • Wiper blades. If you have any doubts, it’s better to replace them.  
  • Exhaust pipe. Always be sure nothing is blocking it, such as snow.  

 

Slow and Steady Wins the Race 

The best advice for winter driving is to always drive slower, smoother, and steadier than you think is necessary. Rushing to get a job done or to get back home quicker is never worth the risk of collisions, jackknifes, or rollovers.  

  1. Reduce your speed when conditions are hazardous. Allow for extra stopping time, and maintain a safe following distance. Poor road conditions can require up to 10 times the normal stopping distance.  
  2. Avoid sudden movements. Sharp turns or hard braking can lead to loss of control or skidding.  
  3. Don’t use the Jake Brake if the road is icy.  The compression release engine brake, also known as the Jake Brake, releases compressed air in the cylinders and will halt the wheels entirely, which could cause skidding. Instead, put the truck into a lower gear and use regular friction brakes to maximize safety. 
  4. Know when to stop. If conditions worsen to the point where it’s unsafe to continue, find a safe place to pull over and wait for conditions to improve. In general, winter driving can be physically and mentally demanding. You should take regular breaks to stay alert and well-rested.  

 

Don’t slip! 

Finally, remember that your vehicle’s steps might be more slick than you expect. Be careful when entering and exiting your tractor during winter. It might help to wear boots that have a good grip, and be sure to take your time.  

 

 

Driving in the winter can be dangerous, but it doesn’t have to be. With over 17% of all vehicle crashes occurring in winter weather conditions, it’s essential to drive slowly and defensively, remain alert, and prepare your truck for every situation.  

 

Here at Drive My Way, we take driver safety seriously. For more information safety tips and tricks, be sure to connect with us on social media and stay up-to-date on our Truck Driver Blog!  

5 New Year’s Resolutions to Add to Your List

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This New Year, people around the world created resolutions about fitness, hobbies, relationships, and more. However, many forget that creating goals for your career and work environment can decrease daily stress and improve productivity all year long.  

 

In a field like commercial trucking, your job can often feel more like a lifestyle. This means that by creating New Year’s resolutions that prioritize your health, safety, and enjoyment on the job, you can improve your overall quality of life. 

 

Keep reading to find out 5 New Year’s resolutions every CDL driver should add to their list this year, and how to set yourself up to have a successful and safe 2024.  

 

Health & Wellness 

For CDL drivers, who spend an average of 40-60 hours a week on the road, it can be difficult to remember to prioritize your physical and mental health. This year, create realistic and quantifiable goals that allow you to focus on your well being no matter where you are.  

 

Take advantage of your break times to get out and stretch your legs or go for a walk. Consider making it a goal to walk for 15 minutes a day, or incorporate calf and other muscle stretches into your daily routine. Being stationary for long periods of time can have a greater health impact than you might expect, and just a little bit of movement can go a long way.  

 

In 2024, you should also keep in mind that mental health is just as important as physical health. Try listening to new podcasts or audiobooks that deal with health and wellness, and be honest with yourself about how you feel. With nearly 14% of CDL drivers facing depression, the first step to every solution is to recognize the problem. This year, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it, and look into what services your carrier may provide to help you along the way.  

 

Diet & Nutrition 

What you eat plays a large role in your health and how you feel overall. Seven out of every 10 truckers face obesity, and this problem can be made worse by the difficulty in finding affordable and nutritious food on the road.  

 

This year, consider making it a priority to bring food from home, or seek out truck stops and restaurants that offer filling food high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. If you find yourself drinking more than 2-3 cups of coffee a day, try to make a goal to lessen your daily intake by half and see how you feel. By eating better and listening to your body, you might be surprised by how much energy you have.  

 

Make Time for Loved Ones 

One of the most difficult parts about truck driving is the long time spent away from home. Being far from loved ones and special events can have a direct impact on mental health, and it can be hard to remind yourself to remain connected while on the road.  

 

By involving your family and loved ones in your own resolutions, you might also be more likely to keep up with them! This year, call home at least once a week, and try out new activities to make the distance seem less difficult. Video calling might not feel the same as being there in person, but apps that let you watch movies together virtually or online board games can improve your mood and remind you of who is waiting for you when you get back.  

 

Maintain Regular Rest Time 

When you’re on the road, it can be easy to try to drive as much as possible to get the job done faster. However, scheduling regular break times is not just legally required for CDL drivers, it’s also important for your safety.  

 

Allow yourself time to rest whenever you begin to feel tired, even if you just pull to the side of the road for 15 minutes. This will barely affect your overall run time, and could help you avoid dangerous and costly accidents.  

 

Always Be Open to Learn  

The trucking industry is always changing, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming to keep up with evolving trends. However, remember that by staying up to date on the newest technologies and legislation, you can remain ahead of the game and find ways to make your day-to-day routine easier.  

 

Consider making it a goal to attend a new conference or hiring event this year. Even if you aren’t looking for a new job, finding out about developments in the industry could help you discover new useful tools and plan for the future.  

 

 

Stay up to date on driver advice, events, and opportunities this year by following our social media or reading other posts on our Driver Blog.  

5 Tips for Summer Trucking

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The official first day of summer is just around the corner, but in many places across the country, the season is already in full swing. Although you won’t be encountering any more icy roads or freezing nights, summer brings different challenges that can affect any trucker. Heavy traffic, large construction projects, and extreme weather can add time to your routes and impact deliveries. Keep reading to find out 5 summer trucking tips to make your travel safe and easy this season.  

  1. Extra Traffic

With the kids out of school, many families pack up their cars, campers, trailers, and RVs and hit the road on annual family vacations. Driving cross country with overly-packed vehicles, and cars hauling extra gear in tow, adds to the congestion on the roads. Keep alert for out of state license plates and under-experienced drivers who might be hauling a trailer or camper for the first time.   

Plan ahead for these extra drivers by budgeting in more time on the road, or by rerouting yourself away from tourist hotspots all together to keep your deliveries on track.  

  1. Construction 

In some areas, summertime is also known as “major road construction” time. Prepare for road closures and traffic jams due to construction by double-checking routes for construction delays and planning alternate paths when possible. Looking ahead can save you time and money.  

Watch out for “Construction Zone” signs and workers alongside the road. Violations in work zones can result in big fines, so keep an eye on your speed and be extra cautious this time of year.  

  1. Extreme Weather

Summer doesn’t just mean hotter temperatures. Thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes are all more likely during the summer, on top of extreme heat. These conditions can be dangerous and impede your deliveries if you’re caught off guard.  

Make sure you’ve got a good weather app, and that notifications are set for when weather conditions are changing. If you need to pull off somewhere unexpectedly, be prepared. Waiting out a storm is a lot easier when you’ve got extra water and supplies in your truck.  

  1. Sun Protection

Although it’s good practice to wear sunscreen year round, UV rays are the most potent during summer months. Even when it’s cloudy, you can still get a serious burn! Being in the sun all day can have a significant impact on your health, and sunscreen is an easy solution.  

Make it a habit to put on a good layer of SPF  before you get in the driver’s seat each day. Try to wear long sleeves, sunglasses, and a hat. Your skin will thank you later!  

  1. Take Frequent Breaks

A five minute break could be the one thing between your truck and a costly accident. The heat of the summer months makes it especially important to schedule yourself time to pull off and rehydrate, stretch, or just rest your eyes.  

 

It can be tempting to push through and complete your deliveries as fast as possible, but the benefits of a short break outweigh any time saved. With an increase of drivers on the road, extreme weather conditions, and changing traffic patterns, trucking in the summer is no joke!  

 

Looking for a Good Truck Driver Workout? Here Are 9 Ideas

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truck driver workoutWorking out on the road is much easier said than done. Trucking isn’t a 9-5 job where you can find ample time to exercise during the evenings and on weekends. Truckers are out on the road for days, sometimes weeks at a time, which can make finding the time or ability to exercise very difficult.

That’s not to say that exercising while on the road is impossible. Just check Instagram or Tik Tok and you’ll see dozens of truck drivers sharing their workout tips. So how are these OTR and regional drivers able to work out while on the road? There are a few different options for truck driver workouts you can do.

Bodyweight Exercises

Becoming a master of your own body weight is one of the best feelings out there. These exercises center around using either no equipment or the equipment around you (or on your truck) for support.  

1. Pushups

Pushups are the most well-known bodyweight exercise and for good reason. They’ve been used for centuries to help people build up the muscles in their chest, shoulders, and arms.  

Pushups can easily be done in a parking lot or even in your sleeper berth. If you do plan on doing them in a parking lot, a rubber exercise or yoga mat is a good investment, so you’re not digging your hands into the asphalt.  

2. Bench Dip

Bench dips are great exercises for working out your triceps. This exercise involves placing a bench or stationary bar that can support your weight behind your back and holding on to it with your arms fully extended at shoulder width. Keep your legs extended forward as well and bent at the waist, so you’re in an “L” shape. Then, slowly lower your body by bending your elbow until your arms are close to 90 degrees. Using that same motion, bring yourself up again and repeat.  

In a gym setting, these can easily be done on a workout bench. For a truck driver on the road, bench dips can be done on the steps leading up to your cab or at a bench you find at a rest stop.

3. Planks

Planking is more than a short-lived internet fad from the late 2000’s. It’s a great exercise for burning fat and stabilizing your core and ab muscles.

You start by lying face down on the ground. Next, put your forearms and toes on the ground, while keeping your legs and torso in the air. Your body should be straight (like a plank). Now, you hold this position for a designated amount of time. You can start off by doing it for 15-20 seconds, and then work yourself up to a minute plus once you get the hang of it.  

Just like pushups, planks can easily be done in your sleeper berth or in a parking lot. You can even do a modified version called a “side plank” that works out your external obliques.

4. Shoulder Shrugs

Probably the easiest exercise on this list, shoulder shrugs are great for strengthening your neck and shoulder muscles while releasing tension. Lift your shoulders up to your ears as if you’re saying, “I don’t know.” Hold the position for a few seconds then release. Perform 10 to 15 reps and repeat for however many sets you want to do.  

Try this exercise while stopped at a red light, waiting on a shipper, or just taking a break.

5. Running/Jogging

If your goal is to burn calories, there’s no substitute for a good run or jog. The bad news is that this isn’t always an option while on the road, since most parking lots aren’t ideal for running in. But there are ways to get around this. Check your maps app to see if there’s a nearby park or trail that’s within walking distance of the stop you’re going to.  

While running is great for you, it’s not the easiest exercise to get into. If this is the case for you, practice high intensity interval training (HIIT) running. This is just a fancy way of saying that you run for a certain amount of time, maybe a minute or two, then you walk for a designated amount of time. You do this repeatedly until you’ve reached your time or distance goal.

As you get more comfortable, you can up the amount of time spent running and decrease the time spent walking. It’s a much easier way to start off than trying to run non-stop. 

Light Exercise Equipment

While bodyweight exercises are great, keeping a bit of spare room in your cab for some light exercise equipment will give you a whole new range of workouts to do.  

6. Grip Strength Trainer

Grip strength trainers are great for working out your forearms and increasing your hand dexterity. The awesome thing about grip strength trainers is that you can use them while you’re watching tv, looking at your phone, or just relaxing before bed.  

7. Resistance Bands

Resistance bands are the Swiss army knives of working out. They can be used in any number of exercises that work out your arms, legs, chest, abs and shoulders. Resistance bands come in a few different types that are usually color-coded, with red or black usually having the hardest resistance.  

While there’s dozens of exercises you can use resistance bands for, some of the most common are squats, triceps extensions and chest press.  

8. Dumbbells

While you probably won’t want to put an entire set of dumbbells from 5 to 100 pounds in your cab, just having one or two can be great for drivers looking to do some light strength training while on the road.  

Even better, consider getting a pair of adjustable dumbbells. These lock into a base, and you can move a notch to select your desired weight. You can find more information on these here.  

Bicep curls, triceps extensions, lawnmower pulls, and shoulder presses are just a few of the exercises you can do with a pair of dumbbells.  

9. Find a Gym

While most of the exercises you’ll see for truck drivers center around things you can do with your own bodyweight or equipment that can fit in your cab, it’s easier than you think to find a gym if you really want it.  

Take Planet Fitness for example. There are thousands of locations across the country, and with their black card membership, you can access any one of them. The great thing about these gyms is being able to use all the fancy exercise equipment like treadmills, circuit machines, and free weights.  

Now, the caveat with going to a gym is of course finding parking. If you’re going late at night, the staff may let you park in the lot, but that’s a very big maybe. Aside from that, you could keep a bike in your cab and bike from the nearest truck stop to the gym.  

As you can see, going to a gym as an OTR or Regional trucker isn’t the easiest thing to plan out. That’s why this option is usually better for local drivers, or drivers who have a dedicated route and have learned all the do’s and don’ts of their local gym.  

This doesn’t mean that OTR or regional drivers have to give up on the idea of going to a gym. There are some truck stops and rest stations that offer gyms specifically for truck drivers. Pilot Flying J and Travel Centers of America are two such companies. 

10. Bonus Tip – Healthy Eating

If you’re really looking to change your lifestyle and get in better shape, you can’t overstate the role healthy eating plays. You can have the best workout regimen around, but if you’re still eating poorly, getting fit is going to be an even bigger uphill battle.  

Simple changes like packing your own healthy lunches before hitting the road, and limiting the amount of sugar you take in will work hand in hand with exercising to help you see results quicker

While exercising as a truck driver isn’t the easiest thing to do, it’s by no means impossible. Whether you’re looking to get in better physical shape, lower your risk of disease, or just feel better about yourself, there’s nothing stopping you from doing it while on the road.

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Truck Driver Road Rage: How to Deal with Frustrations on the Road

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Every truck driver has been there before. Minding your own business in the right lane, when a car races up from behind you, gets right in front of you then slows down to 5 below the speed limit. These situations, along with countless others can lead to the all-too-common problem of truck driver road rage.  

Road rage causes a number of problems on its own, but for truck drivers, these problems get amplified due to the nature of their work. We love trucks for their size and beauty, but that truck becomes 10 tons of danger when you add in a frustrated driver and a congested highway. Here’s what truck drivers should know about road rage and how to avoid it. 

What is Road Rage? 

Road rage is any angry or overly aggressive act performed by a driver while on the road. It can take a number of forms, but road rage is most commonly yelling, tailgating, matching speeds with the offending party, and honking.  

Surprisingly, road rage among drivers is much more common than you would think. It’s not just a small group of angry drivers who are honking their horns, making rude gestures, and cutting people off. A recent study found that 82% of respondents admitted to committing an act of road rage at some point over the past year.  

Consequences of Road Rage 

Being a truck driver can be an exhausting profession even when a driver is in the best of moods. When they’re not, it can make that 10 hours of driving feel like 20. Anger and other intense emotions have been shown to lead to exhaustion, meaning you’ll be burnt out much quicker and not at your sharpest while on the road.  

Being pulled over is another possible consequence of road rage. If you’re letting it get the better of you on a regular basis, expect to eventually be pulled over and given a traffic violation because of it. Enough traffic violations on your CDL and it could eventually get suspended anywhere from two to four months. This might not seem like a lot at first, but that’s two to four months where truck driving won’t be a source of income.  

But the biggest consequence of truck driver road rage is the chance of accident and injury. Driving angry means you’re not thinking rationally. You’re more likely to drive faster and do risky maneuvers that could put you or other drivers in serious danger. 

How to Deal with Road Rage 

The first step in dealing with road rage is to recognize when it’s coming on. Once you start to feel those emotions begin to surface, don’t fall into the same routine of acting on them. After you’ve recognized it, you can do a few different things to help keep your cool.  

The first is to think about how much you have to lose. Aside from your truck and your job, your life and the lives of others could be at risk. Nothing in the world is worth that.  

The second thing to think about is that in the grand scheme of things, this moment really doesn’t matter. Odds are that in a few minutes you won’t even be able to remember the color of the vehicle that offended you. Even if you’re completely justified in your anger, the best thing you can do is move on.  

All drivers are at their best when they’re not overly emotional, and that’s especially true for truck drivers. Every day you’re on the road, you’ll likely encounter something that you could get angry about. You’ll be cut off, beeped at, or tailgated by an impatient driver for not going 80 in the right lane.  

These things are bound to happen, and there’s not much you can do to control them. The only thing you can control is your reaction to them. Once you’ve mastered that, road rage won’t be a problem in your career as a professional truck driver.  

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What Truck Drivers Should Know About OSHA’s Vaccine Mandate

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What is the Vaccine Mandate?

In early November, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) issued an emergency order that starting in early January, all companies with 100 or more employees would be required to implement a vaccine mandate for all employees or do weekly testing for those who wish to remain unvaccinated. The announcement caused a stir in a lot of industries, especially trucking. Here’s all the latest news on OSHA’s recent announcement and how it will affect truck drivers.  

What’s the Latest News?

A similar mandate will be put into place by the Canadian government in early January. This will require U.S. drivers who go across the border to provide proof of vaccination before entering the country. The compliance date for U.S drivers entering Canada to be vaccinated is January 15th, 2022. While proponents of the mandate say it will help curb the number of people infected with the virus, opponents say it will add stress to an already stretched supply chain. 

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The Supreme Court held an emergency hearing on the subject on Friday, January 7. The court is deciding whether or not the executive branch has the authority to implement such an order. While we don’t know when the court will make a ruling, it’s likely that it will be sooner rather than later, due to the urgency of the issue.  Early reports indicate that the court is leaning towards blocking the mandate. 

The American Trucking Association, (ATA) had this to say about the mandate,  

“Based on survey data, we believe a vaccine mandate would fuel a surge in driver turnover and attrition, with fleets losing as much as 37% percent of their current driver workforce to retirement or smaller carriers not subject to the mandate.” 

How Will the Vaccine Mandate Affect Drivers?

The mandate states that any company with 100 or more employees will need to issue a vaccinate mandate or have employees tested weekly. There are a few exemptions to this rule that will affect truck drivers;

  • Employees who do not report to a workplace where other individuals are present 
  • Employees who work from home 
  • Employees who work exclusively outdoors  

OSHA had this to say about how the mandate will affect truck drivers specifically,

“There is no specific exemption from the standard’s requirements for truck drivers. However, paragraph (b)(3) provides that, even where the standard applies to a particular employer, its requirements do not apply to employees “who do not report to a workplace where other individuals such as coworkers or customers are present” or employees “who work exclusively outdoors.” Therefore, the requirements of the ETS do not apply to truck drivers who do not occupy vehicles with other individuals as part of their work duties. Additionally, the requirements of the ETS do not apply to truck drivers who encounter other individuals exclusively in outdoor environments. On the other hand, the requirements of the ETS apply to truck drivers who work in teams (e.g., two people in a truck cab) or who must routinely enter buildings where other people are present. However, de minimis use of indoor spaces where other individuals may be present (e.g., using a multi-stall bathroom, entering an administrative office only to drop off paperwork) does not preclude an employee from being covered by these exemptions, as long as time spent indoors is brief, or occurs exclusively in the employee’s home (e.g., a lunch break at home). OSHA will look at cumulative time spent indoors to determine whether that time is de minimis.”

While most company drivers will fall under these exemptions, this would not cover drivers who work in teams or drivers who need to go inside buildings regularly for trainings or orientation, but once again, it’s unclear how OSHA will treat these cases.  

How Will it Affect Employers?

Employers, just like drivers, will need to comply with the new regulation. Some in the industry worry that the mandate will give an unfair hiring advantage to companies who employ less than 100 people that don’t have to comply with the regulation. 

While this would be the first time the government has mandated vaccination for workers, many employers in the trucking industry have already been requiring vaccination for their drivers for some time now. This means that not much will change for them. 

As of right now, this story is still unfolding, and a lot could change between now and if and when the vaccine mandate goes into effect. That includes a possible Supreme Court ruling that would make OSHA’s emergency order unconstitutional. Make sure to look online regularly for updates to stay informed on how this will impact you or your company.  

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4 of the Best Sleeping Tips for Truckers

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4 of the Best Sleeping Tips for Truckers

Truck drivers and a good night’s sleep don’t always go well together. Besides being a major annoyance, lack of sleep can lead to safety issues while on the road. Many drivers, specifically OTR drivers, experience poor sleep habits, which can lead to irritability and slow reaction time—two big issues if you’re driving a large vehicle for extended periods of time. It’s also a major factor in accidents involving truck drivers.

There are a few reasons that truck drivers, specifically OTR drivers are at a greater risk for developing sleeping problems. Aside from the difficulty of finding a place to sleep, they may have to deal with noise, lights as well. While these challenges can be difficult, there are a lot of things that truck drivers can do to help them sleep better while on the road. Here are 4 of the best sleeping tips for truck drivers.

1. Find a Safe Spot

This first tip comes to us from Larry, a CDL A Owner Operator.

“I tell new drivers to sleep at truck stops or rest areas. Preferably well lit, especially if you are a female truck driver. Also, plan where you’re going to stop, and pay for parking if necessary. Never park on the side of the road or on an on ramp. That’s very dangerous! Planning is very big part of knowing where to park. Remember, if it seems sketchy, it probably is! Keep it moving.”

2. Eliminate Distractions: Light and Sound

There are two main types of distractions that drivers who are trying to sleep deal with: light and sound. For light, we recommend using a visor shade for your windshield, as that’s the biggest place where light can pour into your truck. If that’s still not enough, wearing a face mask is your best bet. A heavy duty one that won’t move around much while you’re sleeping works best.

sleeping tips

Eliminating sources of sound is also important but can be a bit trickier. While this is easier said than done, the best thing you can do is to try and park away from other trucks if possible. But this, of course, isn’t always an option. If it’s specific noise, like people talking or engines that keeps you from falling asleep, consider using a white noise machine. These are devices that look like a speaker and emit sounds similar to TV static or waves that many people find it easy to fall asleep to. If it’s all noise that bothers you, you might want to think about a pair of ear plugs. Take this as a last resort though, as it’s important to still be aware of your senses, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar truck stop or rest area.

3. Get a Better Mattress

Having a quality mattress is an often overlooked but crucial component for driver sleep, especially in older drivers. Mattresses, especially higher end mattresses, can seem like a big investment. But when you consider how much time you spend in your tuck, it’ll prove its value in no time. The Sleep Foundation has a lot of great information on the best mattresses out right now for truck drivers.

4. Consider Caffeine Alternatives

Coffee, Red Bull and soft drinks are very popular with truck drivers thanks to their caffeine content and wide availability at restaurants and gas stations. But, having too much caffeine during the day or any within 5 hours of going to sleep is shown to cause issues like not letting you access deep sleep, which can have negative effects on your short and long-term memory.

For many long-haul drivers, getting a good night’s sleep can prove difficult. There are any of number of challenges that affect your sleep and subsequently, your performance on the road. While these sleeping tips can help, it’s important to know when it’s time to see a licensed sleep specialist. If your sleep issues get bad enough, a professional is your best resource in keeping yourself healthy and safe while on the road.

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How to Easily Reduce Truck Driver Stress on the Job

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How to Easily Reduce Truck Driver Stress on the Job

Stress. Everyone has stress in their lives. But for a truck driver, when stress impacts their life, it can truly be dangerous. If a driver is stressed and it impacts their thinking or decision-making, it is something that needs to be addressed. Immediately. Because truckers are bombarded with distractions all day long while trying to concentrate and drive safely, it can be hard to find ways to reduce added stress from their lives. But we’ve found a few fundamental things that can help. Here are a few ways to easily reduce truck driver stress on the job.

Get Some Sleep

The best way to reduce your stress levels is to be proactive in getting enough sleep. Without the proper amount of sleep, your body struggles to function well. One of the first things affected is your thinking. Decision making is tougher, and your attention span may shorten. All these things will lead to additional stress over the course of the day.

Great advice for any trucker: be sure to get your required hours of shut-eye to maintain a healthy mind, and reduce stress during the day.

Get the best sleep by keeping up with your bedtime routine. Reduce lights and distractions once it’s bed time. Put away your electronics before you get into bed for the night. So that once your head hits the pillow, all you need to do is close your eyes and fall asleep.

Eat to Reduce Truck Driver Stress

Stress eating is a real thing. But what about eating to reduce stress? There are plenty of foods that are known to reduce stress. Foods chock full of vitamins and minerals are known to help fuel your body and help improve your mood. Counter to this, foods without any real nutritional value can have the opposite effect.

Eating sugar or high levels of caffeine might give you a short burst of energy, but leave you dragging later. That’s certain to cause additional stress, and make your day drag even worse.

Avoid foods with short-term effects, and stick with foods that will help you stay healthy for the long haul. Keeping a good balance of foods that taste good and are good for you is a great way to keep stress at bay on the road.

Clear Your Mind with a Story

Concentrating on the road and traffic all day can take a toll on your nerves. Many drivers like to listen to podcasts or stories during the day to help pass the time. Some drivers prefer to listen once the workday is done.

After a long day on the road, many truckers find listening to audiobooks a terrific way to unwind and relax.

Once you are parked for the night, get comfortable, close your eyes, and press play. Transport yourself into a story about history, science fiction, crime dramas, or something light and happy. You can find any number of apps for your phone or tablet to play the audiobooks.

Advice from a Trucker

We asked our Drive My Way Facebook followers to let us know what helps them reduce stress.

Tim Petruccio mentioned a few different things that help him:

  • Tim Petruccio

    Tim Petruccio

    Increase following distances

    3 to 4 mph less than traffic during volume times

  • Turn off the outside noise (radio, phone calls, etc…)
  • Remember you are in control. You have the final say when it comes to YOUR safety
  • Get rest! Don’t spend 3 of your 10 hours on break, watching TV or gaming. Have a good meal, shower and then hit the rack
  • Think about the things you love (family, places, pets, etc.). Then picture yourself returning safely to them

Keeping family and friends close in your mind really can help too. It’s always good to know that no matter how tough your day is, there’s always a way to make the next day better.

Let us know what you think. Sound off on our Facebook post and let us know what you do to help reduce your truck driver stress. We’d love to share your best ideas with our readers!

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The Ultimate Guide for Truck Drivers to Maintain 3 Healthy Habits Over the Road

Download the complete guide for tips to easily maintain healthy habits over the road.
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Truck Driver Health and Wellness: 10 Tips from an Expert

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Truck drivers must be able to drive safely. For their sake, and the sake of all the other drivers on the road. So truck driver health and wellness is an important topic in the industry.

In the US, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, FMCSA, requires all commercial vehicle drivers to obtain a DOT medical card, showing they’re fit for the road. For drivers in good health, a 24-month card will usually be issued after the screening is complete. But for some drivers with new or pre existing medical conditions, temporary cards may be issued. These temporary cards give the driver time to properly correct or address the medical issue discovered.

For many drivers, this isn’t always that easy. The stress many drivers already have can compound with the added stress of a newly found medical problem. Factor in the sedentary nature of the job, and these medical issues might not be that easy to correct. Or correct in time to meet the deadline on the medical card. If you’re looking to improve your truck driver health and wellness, here are 10 tips from an expert to get you started.

Bob Perry, the Trucker Trainer, has worked to bring wellness expertise to the driver community for decades.

Bob brings a unique perspective to the transportation industry. He is the son and brother of career drivers⁠—both owner-operators for the last 75 years. He’s passionate about working with truckers on their health and wellness. Specifically as it relates to drivers losing their jobs as a result of health issues.

“We lose thousands of drivers every year from failing their Recertification Medical Exams. Many of these failures are due to elevated blood pressure, high glucose & BMI’s levels. Weight plays a significant factor in these cases. We need to support our drivers with the tools necessary to live and work healthy on the road”

Speaking with Bob, he’s provided these great tips to help drivers get and stay fit for the long haul.

Tip 1: Goal planning

Sit down and write out what exactly it is you want to achieve. The goal could range from weight loss, to building strength and endurance, or even to relieve depression.

Tip 2: Be honest with yourself and make your goals realistic

Everyone is made up differently. Never compare yourself to someone else; it’s genetically impossible!

Tip 3: Now that you have your goal, write down the steps you are going to take to get there

It’s impossible to reach that higher level without taking one step at a time. No time like the present to set a new goal! February is a good time as any other to make your new year’s resolutions stick. Goals can be as big or small as you need them to be. But be certain that they’re attainable. For each goal you set, break it down into bite-sized pieces. If you’ve got a goal to lose some weight, a good plan might start with simply cutting out one soda each day. Then work to do that every day. Eventually, it becomes a healthy habit.

Tip 4: Water, you need to flush out your system

Drinking enough water and eating healthy foods are so important! If you are dehydrated, it impacts almost every aspect of your body. You don’t think as clearly, your skin shows signs of stress, and it might even make you feel extra tired.

Tip 5: Protein, first thing in the AM

The same goes for eating a healthy diet. Starting the day with protein can help you feel full longer and keep the urge for unhealthy snacking at bay. These tips are good for any trucker looking to start some healthy habits over the road.

Tip 6: Be prepared

Have your protein ready for the next morning and snacks for the day.

Tip 7: Begin your workout routine slowly; two to three times a week is great

Your workout should consist of strength training and cardiovascular exercise.

Tip 8: Think ahead, plan your next workout

Getting into an exercise routine is great advice for any truck driver health and wellness plans. Like Bob mentioned earlier, be realistic and have a plan when starting. Short walks a few times a day, or even some quick exercises here and there, might work better than jumping into a plan to spend 2 hours in the gym every day. Bite-sized progress here is the best plan for long-term success.

Tip 9: Staying motivated

The key to long-term success in being healthy, know how to motivate yourself over and over again. If you do the same thing, you will stay the same.

Tip 10: Last but not least, never beat yourself up if you fall off the program

Avoid going down the unhealthy road two days in a row, it then becomes a habit. Nobody is perfect. Sometimes life gets in the way of any well thought out plan. When you try something new, there’s always a chance that you’re going to have good days and bad days. The key takeaway from Bob related to this is to know that each day is a new opportunity to be happy and successful. If your motivation wanes, have a plan to get yourself back on track. And at each stumble, know that you can dust yourself off and get back on the road to a healthier you!

If you’re looking for some additional information from Bob, and some help for getting healthier to pass your re-certification test, you can find out more here.

ultimate-guide-truck-drivers-maintain-3-healthy-habits-over-the-road

The Ultimate Guide for Truck Drivers to Maintain 3 Healthy Habits Over the Road

Download the complete guide for tips to easily maintain healthy habits over the road.
Download the Guide Now