If you are a long-distance driver or considering it as a profession, then you should know how important it is to maintain your vehicle. Not only to protect it from the effects of the elements and the long distances that it will be covering, but to make sure you are kept safe. Here are 5 things that can make long-distance truck driving safer and more comfortable.
Tire Safety
Whilst semi-truck tires are designed and manufactured to withstand hard usage and heavy mileage, they should be check at certain intervals to make sure they aren’t worn. Worn tires can lose their grip on the roads, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Make sure tire treads are checked regularly and, if they need to be replaced, do so immediately. This will keep you and other road users safe from any mishaps or accidents. It will also keep your semi-truck running at its optimum capacity. The last thing you would want is a semi truck accident.
Carry out standard checks regularly
Whilst this might be obvious, you might be surprised at how regularly some people forget to check the vehicle’s oil, radiators, and brakes, etc. Regular basic checks are essential to ensure the safety of your vehicle.
Soundproofing and insulation
If you are on the road all day then you may be subject to continuous noise from other vehicles. Due to the size of a semi-truck engine, it can also cause a great deal of noise. According to Second Skin Audio, research suggests that traffic noise can lead to depression and even cardiovascular and breathing problems. That’s why it’s a good idea to have soundproofing and insulation installed in the cockpit and sleeper cabin of your truck. It will deaden structural noise and block/absorb airborne noise. Due to the amount of time you will be spending in your truck, it will make a huge difference to your comfort and will also improve the interior specification of your vehicle.
Create a relaxing sleeper cabin
As well as the insulation and soundproofing we mentioned above, there are other ways you can improve your sleeper cabin. Add some color to the walls and some flooring to make it a bit more homely. Create a relaxing sleeping area and try and utilize as much space as possible with integrated storage. You can buy electrical equipment such as DVD players and TV’s that are made specifically for semi-trucks and are therefore smaller. Your home-from-home will be far more comfortable with a few personal touches.
Manage stress and tiredness
Driving long distances can be boring and, at times, mundane. You may be traveling for hours at a time, and so, you must get into a routine and take regular breaks. It can also prove stressful, as you will come across fellow drivers from time to time who, quite frankly, shouldn’t be on the road. Find a way to relax and remain calm. You may spend half your life on the road, so making it a pleasurable experience will benefit you greatly.
