If you’re a trucker in Texas, you should know that fatigued driving is extremely dangerous. However, it can be difficult for many truck drivers to prevent fatigue due to tight deadlines and long hours spent behind the wheel. Doing so is vital however, as it will preserve your safety as well as the safety of other motorists.
The Federal Motor Carrier Association offers some useful tips reducing the impact of driver fatigue for professional truck drivers. Of course, getting enough sleep before setting out on your journey is the best chance of feeling well-rested. In this case, it’s best to give yourself a little time after waking to be sure you’re feeling alert for you drive. You should also refrain from driving between 12 am and 6 am, as you’re bound to feel naturally drowsy during this time.
Naps are also crucial. If you’re driving and begin to feel drowsy, try to find a safe place to park your truck for a brief nap. For the best results naps should last at least 45 minutes (although 10-minute naps can help restore your energy in a pinch). You should also be able to identify the signs of fatigue, so you can take a break when necessary. Yawing is one tell-tale sign, as is blurred vision and a feeling of heaviness in the eyes.
Your diet can also impact how alert you are while driving. Heavy meals can actually bog you down, which highlights how important it is to eat moderate servings at regular intervals throughout the day. You should also stay away from processed foods or items containing a lot of sugar. While these items may give you a quick boost of energy, the ensuing crash could jeopardize your ability to stay awake behind the wheel.