Driving during the summer season brings its own set of challenges for truck drivers. From extreme heat to increased traffic, truckers face many challenges while driving in the brutal summer weather of Australia. Novice truck drivers face more challenges as compared to experienced truck drivers during the summer season since they aren’t sure how to prepare for the heat. That’s why we created this blog to help novice truck drivers drive safely during hot weather.
In this article, Amigo Tyres - trusted for new wheels, alignment, and tyre rotation services in Rocklea - will share expert tips to help truckers drive safely during summer. Let’s start!
Summer Driving Safety Tips for Truckers
Below are the top 12 driving tips for truckers to drive safely in the summer season:
Monitor tyre pressure: Because high temperatures can lead to tyre blowouts, it’s important to monitor tyre pressure regularly. Ensure tyres are properly inflated according to manufacturer recommendations to reduce the risk of blowouts.
Plan routes carefully: Plan your routes in advance, taking into account potential construction zones and traffic congestion. Use GPS or traffic apps to navigate around delays and minimize the travel time. You can also get help from other truck drivers for planning routes.
Be aware of bushfires: Summer in Australia brings an increased risk of bushfires, especially in rural and forest areas. Stay tuned for bushfire alerts and avoid traveling through fire-prone areas with recent reports of fire. Follow all instructions from authorities and have an evacuation plan in place if necessary
Watch for wildlife: Australia is known for its unique wildlife, and encounters with animals on the road are not uncommon. Be vigilant, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are most active. Reduce speed in areas with warning signs for wildlife crossings.
Avoid fatigue: Long hours on the road, combined with the heat, can lead to trucker fatigue. Take regular breaks to rest, stretch, and rejuvenate yourself. Aim for a break every couple of hours or when you start feeling tired.
Protect yourself from the sun: Australia’s sun can be harsh, leading to sunburn and eye strain. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing to shield yourself from harmful UV rays. Use the truck’s sun visor to reduce glare on the windshield.
Stay informed about weather conditions: Australia’s climate can vary significantly from region to region, so stay informed about local weather forecasts and road conditions along your route. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, including thunderstorms, strong winds, and dust storms.
Stay calm in traffic: Summer holidays and events can lead to increased traffic congestion, especially around popular tourist destinations. Stay calm, patient, and maintain a safe following distance to avoid rear-end collisions in heavy traffic.
Avoid distractions: Avoid distractions while driving by using hands-free devices for navigation, communication, and entertainment. Keep your focus on the road and be prepared to react quickly to changing traffic and weather conditions.
Maintain Emergency Preparedness: Carry an emergency kit with essential supplies, including water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a reflective vest, and a fully charged mobile phone. Be prepared for breakdowns, accidents, or other unforeseen circumstances on the road.
Stay hydrated: Australia’s summer temperatures can soar, leading to dehydration and fatigue. Carry a generous water supply with you and drink regularly to stay hydrated throughout your journey.3
Check air conditioning: Truck cabs can become uncomfortably hot during the summer season. Use air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature and ensure your driving environment is conducive to focus and alertness.
Following the above tips will help truck drivers ensure a smooth and safe journey during the summer season in Australia. Experienced truckers recommend new truck drivers to park their truck in a safe location if the excessive heat is becoming challenging while driving.
Got any queries to ask?Contact us to get them answered by our truck experts in Rocklea, Australia.