Trucking is a marathon. Commercial or owner operator truck drivers spend a big part of their day in their truck and they average 2000 to 3000 miles per week. This is why comfort is so important. While you might be able to tough it out in the short-term, long-term discomfort will affect your morale, cause fatigue, reduce productivity, and may even affect your health. If something is bothering you, don’t waste time about correcting the problem because it’s only going to get worse with time. Here are six tips for making your driving more comfortable and enjoyable:
- Properly adjust your seat. Slide your seat forward so that you can comfortably use the steering wheel without leaning forward. Your calves should not touch the front of your seat, and the front of the seat should only exert a tiny amount of pressure against the backside of your thigh. Your back should be straight.
- Stay hydrated. Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with cool water. This is especially important in the warmer months when walking outside in the heat combined with driving in an air-conditioned cab with dry air can dehydrate you. Dehydration causes headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and can cause the eyes to dry out from reduced tear production.
- Wear comfortable clothes. You should have zero tolerance for clothing that causes pain or discomfort, whether it’s a shoe stitching that digs into your foot or pants that are too tight. Wear loose and comfortable clothing.
- Wear sunglasses. Eyestrain from hours of road glare exposure causes both headache and fatigue. If you can, get polarized sunglasses, because no other eyewear technology can match its ability to strip away glare from reflective surfaces. Use a gray tint because it won’t distort colors.
- Bring food. Even if you normally eat out, bring a small refrigerator and keep it stocked with healthy but tasty food. This is a great comfort item especially on days when you don’t have time to stop for lunch.
- Have a means of blocking out light and sound when sleeping. This may include thick window curtains or an eye mask to block out light. Sounds can be more difficult to block. However, ear plugs or possibly a white or brown noise generator will help.
Another comfort factor is the peace of mind you get from knowing your truck is fully insured. For information about Nebraska commercial or owner operator truck insurance, contact us at J.E.B. Insurance Services.
