Do you fear getting drowsy during a long-distance trip while driving the Type 2 Road Train? If yes, you might find these tips useful as you carry out your task of delivering goods to the farthest suburbs of Australia.
Tip #1 – Have plenty of rest before the long-distance trip
If it is days before you will hit the road again for a long distance trip, I recommend you have plenty of rest and sleep. As much as possible have an early night before the actual road trip, so that you have plenty in reserve to keep you mentally alert and physically strong.
Tip #2 – Eat a full meal
Never drive the Type 2 Road Train on an empty stomach. If you are scheduled to do this long distance trip during the early morning hours, eat a full breakfast. Choose foods that will keep you in high spirits and feeling energized. Don’t forget to pack additional food and water to ensure you plenty of supplies, especially if driving in areas where there are many kilometers between food stops.
Tip #3 – Play some music
Sometimes a quiet atmosphere will be inviting but can make you feel drowsy during a long distance road trip. If your type 2 Road Train has a built-in music player, why not play some music that will keep you awake. Besides, if you are driving alone the sound of live music is a good company to motivate you to be on the go and mentally alert. Don’t turn the speaker up too loud, so you can still hear sounds in your surroundings, like an approaching vehicle or loud horn coming from a vehicle trying to overtake your lane on the highway. Keep the range of sound at a minimum level that you can hear the music clearly but not too loud or too soft.
Tip #4 – Take a stop whenever you are feeling quite tired
Don’t proceed with the next few kilometers if you are already feeling quite tired and sleepy. Find the nearest stop where truckers and other heavy-duty vehicle drivers are allowed to park and rest. Once you manage to get a stop and ideal parking space, use this time to rest, eat and even find a cheap motel to sleep. Be sure the place where you will park the Type 2 Road Train is well-lit to avoid thieves or vandals.
Tip #5 – Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
This is a big “NO” when driving a Type 2 Road Train; never drive this heavy-duty vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, even if they are prescription medicines. Why? Taking liquor or prescription drugs will make you drowsy and might result in you being out of control while behind the steering wheel. If you are being treated and under a strict medication regime, it is better to postpone this long-distance drive and reschedule it when you are physically fit and ready to drive.
Truck Insurance HQ can help you with more tips and tricks to help avoid drowsiness when Driving road trains. We can also help you with insurance, call today on 1300 815 344 or request a quote online.