10 Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Long Distance Drives
Millions of people travel across the UK every day in their cars or on public transport. Getting from A to B is just another part of our day, whether we are on the road or in the air, we rely heavily on transport to get us around for short and long distances. Although we don’t have thousands of miles of land in every direction in the UK, like America and larger countries across the globe, our roads still accommodate thousands of trucks and HGVs travelling up and down our motorways every day. With major haulage firms using whole fleets of these vehicles for transportation of goods and materials, they have become a dominant force on our roads. More HGVs mean more specialist drivers who are required to carry an appropriate license for these types of vehicles. They also have to be aware of the dangers of not only driving such large vehicles but also to know how to adapt and prepare for very long journeys.
Driving from Southampton to Edinburgh for example, is a very long way and it is these sort of trips that require preparation and forethought before setting off. So, as a driver, what are the 10 most important tips for your consideration if you are intending on a long-distance journey? Any of these tips are applicable for car drivers and truck drivers, so take a look and see what you can do to make your next journey more enjoyable.
1. Rest Stops
This is probably the most obvious tip for any working driver in charge of a large goods vehicle. EU law states that drivers must take 45 minutes rest for every four and a half hours on the road. You should also have at least 11 hours of rest per day between shifts. Tiredness kills, just like the signs say.
2. Driving License and Papers
This is actually a very obvious one because technically a lot of people carry their driving license on them, however, it’s advisable for truck drivers because they are generally on the road longer and it also causes less inconvenience if and when they are stopped and asked for it. Better to be safe than sorry.
3. Truck Manual
An instruction booklet or user manual is kept normally in a car anyway so having an HGV or lorry manual is a great way to identify any problems that occur mechanically and it can speed up the process if you have to call for any roadside assistance.
4. Water and Food
It gets mighty cold especially in the Winter if you get stuck on the roads due to bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances and just as the news always suggests car drivers to keep a blanket and some water in the car in case of an emergency, the same applies to truck drivers. Just a few chocolate bars and a bottle of water could really put a smile back on your face if you do get stuck in the cold, far from the nearest service station. Chocolate is also ideal because it will increase your energy levels.
5. Specialised Meals and Packed Lunch
As a driver you could be driving very long distances during the course of a day and not want to stop at a café or service station every time you want a bite to eat as it could become very expensive. That’s why it is important to ensure you have a filling meal at some point that will keep your energy levels up and concentration mode in full gear. This may seem difficult when you are on the move but it doesn’t have to be. Nutritious meals are important for everyone but the mention of them tends to cause rolling of the eyes and a cynical response from a lot of people. However, these meals needn’t be flavourless and boring. Sandwiches are great but people get bored of them on a daily basis so, why not consider a tuna salad (kept in a cooling container of course) or perhaps a turkey salad with nuts and avocados. These meals would provide you with the protein you need and give you sustainable energy, which is great for long trips. Rice and noodle dishes are also popular. Bananas are a good source of potassium for keeping energy levels high and they are easy to snack with on the move. Alternatively, a container of fresh soup is always a favourite in the winter.
6. Music Management and Entertainment
With today’s technology and accessibility to millions of albums and movie databases, it’s never been easier to plug in and listen to your favourite music or watch your favourite TV show. Obviously, when driving you shouldn’t be watching anything other than the road but as far as music is concerned, devices such as Ipods and mobile phones can store as much music as they can hold. You don’t even need a CD player and should you wish to listen to your collection of MP3s, you can buy an MP3 adaptor for the stereo unit. It’s a great way to keep you concentrated and relaxed at the same time, giving you something to listen to on those long journeys.
7. Audio Books and Self learn tapes
This is slightly different to the music suggestion because it is more educational. Audio books are great for getting through novels that you just simply don’t have time to read and self-learning tapes could include anything, from learning a language to learning about a particular subject. Although the job is driving from point A to point B, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it along the way and learn something every day.
8. Grille Toys
It seems to be a tradition for most truck drivers to have a mascot of sorts pinned to the front grille of the vehicle. These have become a fun addition to Britain’s roads and many drivers use old toys from childhood. Wherever they go they are always a talking point. They could be a cartoon character plush toy or an old model toy you don’t mind getting abused by the weather and they give the vehicle more character.
9. Correct Posture
The chances are that most HGVs won’t have ergonomic seats with proper back support and unfortunately, the longer the journey the greater risk of back damage there can be. This can be avoided by adhering to a few rules of correct posture when driving. Lumbar support is important and gives support to the Lumbar spine where it curves in towards the abdomen. It also helps to have the seat tilt back slightly just so your back isn’t rigidly vertical and forced into an unnatural position. Also, keep your hands low on the wheel as this prevents over-stretching and a quarter to three position is better for longer stints than a ten to two steering position.
10. European Supplies
As a lorry driver you could be travelling across Europe and you need to be prepared for not only driving on a different side of the road but also for legal requirements for countries such as France which is a main hotspot for HGVs due to the seaport of Calais. In France, you will need a warning triangle and high-visibility jacket in the vehicle. If you are stopped for any reason and you don’t have these items on-board you could be arrested. That is the rule for all vehicles in France and you need to be carrying one on-board at all times. You are also required to get headlight reflectors to account for driving on the opposite side of the road to Britain. Your headlights will be angled for left-hand side driving and these reflectors counteract that problem.
Author: Charlie works with http://www.walkermovements.co.uk/ and is a staunch supporter of making driving on the roads safer.
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