Summertime Tips for Truckers – With summer comes warmer temperatures and more people on the roadways taking trips. This is a great time of year but also dangerous as we contend with soaring temps and increased traffic. Here are some ways truckers can stay safe this summer.
1. Check the Brakes
You may not realize it, but the temperature can have a big impact on your brakes. Brake fading can happen when the temperature outside gets hot. This is due to the loss of friction because brake components are no longer able to absorb the heat, which leads to increased stopping distances and decreased brake life performance. Routine maintenance is a must to ensure brake fading doesn’t occur.
2. Keep Your Tires Inflated Properly
The summer heat can cause tire blowouts. That’s because tires tend to inflate with rising temperatures. When those inflated tires make contact with hot surfaces such as asphalt pavement, that friction, combined with high speeds, can result in blowouts. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, especially in summer. Regular maintenance of your tires will also extend their useful life.
3. Protect Yourself From the Sun
Many truckers don’t realize the level of sun exposure they are receiving when they are driving. Many truckers fall victim to what’s called “trucker’s arm,” similar to a golfer’s or farmer’s tan. This occurs due to one side of the upper body being exposed to the sun while driving. Not only can it lead to unsightly tans and burns on the left side of the face and arm, it can increase the risk for skin cancer on these body parts.
To combat this, use window covers, sun sleeves, long sleeves and sunscreen with at least 30 SPF.
4. Be Aware of More Traffic
Summer means the kids are off school and many families take off on trips on the nation’s roadways. Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day and general summer vacations are all taking place during just a few months. With so many more people hitting the road, it’s important to be aware of those increased numbers and adjust travel accordingly.
Be patient, drive even more cautiously and leave yourself more time to get to your destination. Be alert and drive defensively.
5. Don’t Forget Maintenance
Keep up with regular maintenance on your truck throughout the summer. This includes getting all suggested oil changes, keeping tires inflated, getting the engine checked when the light comes on, making sure all hazard and taillights are working, and keeping your truck clean and safe.
On top of that, you should have a fueling plan in place so your fleet can run efficiently at all times, with minimal downtime. For that, contact Taylor Oil. We offer mobile and on-site fueling for your convenience.