The best way for the commercial or owner operator truck driver to stay awake on the road is being well rested. Yes, that isn’t much of a tip, but no amount of tips or tricks can get you around your body’s basic needs. Do what you must to ensure that those 7 or 8 hours in the sack are spent asleep instead of tossing and turning. Block out light from your sleeper with curtains or wear a sleep mask. Likewise, use ear plugs or noise canceling technology to block out sound. Sleeping soundly every night is your foundation against drowsy driving.
That said, sometimes life happens to the commercial or owner operator truck driver and you end up with 4 or 5 hours of sleep. Or perhaps a stressful or physically active day has left you drowsy. In that case, these four tips will keep you alert:
Pull over at a Rest Stop and Take a Power Nap
Sleep is the most powerful antidote against fatigue, even if it’s only 20 minutes long. If your eyes start getting heavy, pull over to a safe place and take a 20 minute nap. Follow it up with a coffee and a brisk walk. The caffeine and physical activity both act as stimulants that should keep you alert for at least 2 more hours. Repeat as needed.
Turn Up Your Music
Avoid soothing and relaxing music because this will have the opposite effect that you need. Listen to loud energizing music and sing along. Don’t worry, there’s no one is around to hear you.
Eat Small Snacks
Nibble on healthy snacks such as nuts, sunflower seeds, or almonds. Eat them slowly to get the most out of each bag. The idea is not about filling your stomach, but chewing food in your mouth. The action seems to suppress sleepiness, which is why chewing gum is a common trick used by commercial or owner operator truck drivers. When you stop chewing however, the effect wears off, which is why you want to eat slowly. Avoid sugar because it will make you drowsy after a brief high.
Lower the Temperature in Your Cab
Keep the temperature on the chilly side by either rolling down the window in the winter, or turning up the AC in the summer.
If you require affordable commercial or owner operator truck insurance in Texas, we can help. Don’t hesitate to contact us at J.E.B. Insurance Services, LLC.
