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To drive safely and effectively on the road, OTR drivers should
prioritize safety, health, and planning. This includes practicing defensive driving, staying aware of surroundings, avoiding distractions, taking regular breaks, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and exercise. Long-term success also requires careful trip planning and a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance.
Safety and driving
- Practice defensive driving: Always be aware of your surroundings, maintain a safe following distance, and be prepared for the unexpected.
- Avoid distractions: Keep your focus on the road by minimizing visual, manual, and cognitive distractions, such as using a cell phone.
- Check blind spots: Constantly check your mirrors to be aware of vehicles in your blind spots.
- Drive carefully: Make wide turns, signal appropriately, and obey speed limits. Be cautious of a high center of gravity and long stopping distances.
- Be extra cautious at night: Be aware of potential highway hypnosis and adjust your driving accordingly.
- Wear your seatbelt: It's a simple but crucial safety measure, even when you're comfortable in the cabin for long hours.
- Get plenty of rest: Fatigue is a major risk factor. Get adequate sleep when possible and take advantage of rest breaks to avoid long-term fatigue.
- Eat and stay hydrated: Maintain a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein. Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
- Exercise: Incorporate exercise into your routine, even if it's just a walk during a break, to stay alert and keep your body active.
- Listen to your body: Take breaks when you feel tired or stressed.
- Choose truck stops wisely: Consider where you park, refuel, and rest, especially when it comes to food choices.
- Plan your trip: Plan your routes in advance, including fuel stops and rest breaks.
- Maintain your vehicle: Keep your truck in good working condition through regular maintenance.
- Manage your hours: Be mindful of your Hours of Service and utilize features like the "yard move" function on your electronic logging device (ELD) to save driving time for highway travel.
- Communicate: Keep your dispatcher and loved ones informed of your whereabouts and stay in communication with your co-driver if you have one.