Tips for Summer Trucking

As a trucker, you're no stranger to challenging road conditions. While winter's icy roads and freezing nights may be behind you, summer brings its own set of obstacles that can impact your routes and delivery schedules. From heavy traffic and extensive construction projects to extreme weather, summer driving requires a unique set of strategies. In this blog, we'll explore five essential tips to help you navigate the challenges of summer trucking and ensure a safe and efficient journey.

Understanding Summer Traffic Patterns

During the summer months, highways become crowded with families heading out on vacations. Schools are out, and families take advantage of the break to travel, often in cars, campers, trailers, and RVs packed with gear. This surge in vacationers can lead to increased congestion on the roads, especially near popular tourist destinations and national parks. To navigate this influx of traffic, it's crucial to stay alert and watch for out-of-state license plates and vehicles that appear to be heavily loaded. Many of these drivers may not have experience handling large vehicles or towing trailers, which can lead to unpredictable driving behavior. To keep your deliveries on schedule, consider planning your routes to avoid known tourist hotspots. Budget extra time for your journeys to account for potential traffic delays. Utilizing traffic apps and GPS systems that provide real-time updates can help you reroute quickly if you encounter unexpected congestion.

Construction: Navigating Road Work

Summer is prime time for road construction as warmer weather allows for extensive repairs and improvements. This can mean frequent road closures, detours, and traffic jams that can disrupt your planned routes and add significant time to your journey. Before hitting the road, double-check your routes for any construction-related delays. Many states offer online resources and apps that provide up-to-date information on road work. Planning alternate paths ahead of time can save you both time and frustration. When driving through construction zones, be extra cautious. Speed limits are often reduced, and fines for violations can be steep. Watch for construction zone signs and workers near the road, and always follow posted speed limits and instructions from flaggers. Reducing your speed not only helps avoid fines but also ensures the safety of road workers and other drivers.

Extreme Weather: Preparing for the Unexpected

Summer weather isn't just about heat. This season also brings an increased risk of severe weather events like thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. These conditions can create hazardous driving situations and potentially delay your deliveries. Equip yourself with a reliable weather app that provides real-time updates and severe weather alerts. Set notifications for changing conditions along your route. Being aware of upcoming weather patterns allows you to make informed decisions about whether to continue driving or find a safe place to wait out a storm. Always carry extra water, non-perishable food, and emergency supplies in your truck. In the event you need to pull over and wait for a storm to pass, having these essentials can make the situation more manageable. Additionally, ensure your truck's air conditioning system is in good working order to combat extreme heat during your journey.

Sun Protection

Long hours on the road mean extended exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays, which are strongest during the summer months. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through the clouds and windows, leading to sunburn and increasing your risk of skin cancer over time. To protect yourself, make it a habit to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before starting your day. Reapply every few hours, especially if you're sweating. Wearing long sleeves, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat can also help shield your skin from direct sun exposure. Additionally, consider installing UV-protective window film in your truck to further reduce your exposure.

Conclusion

Summer trucking comes with its own unique set of challenges, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can navigate these obstacles smoothly. By anticipating extra traffic, staying informed about construction zones, preparing for extreme weather, protecting yourself from the sun, and taking regular breaks, you'll ensure a safer and more efficient journey. Keep these tips in mind, and enjoy the open road this summer!