Summer is in full swing, and families across the nation have been hitting the road for vacations, creating fuller roads and less cautious drivers. Whether driving your rig cross-country, or hauling goods for a shorter route, American families will be logging the miles this July and August as they do every year so it’s important to stay alert. Here a few tips for truck driving in the summer while truckers continue to work hard while others are on vacation:

1. More drivers on the roads: Watch out for packed highways packed with drivers of all ages. Teenagers go on trips. families go on vacations, people take days off work and there are more people on the road than any other season. This creates hazardous roads for a truck drivers. Stay alert for drivers who aren’t used to long road trips. Drivers can become more distracted, fatigued, or make poor choices while driving.
2. Eat healthy: Fresh fruit, yogurt, and cold water are great snacks to pack with you on the road. Not only are these foods healthy but they are refreshing during the summer months.
3. Stay hydrated and out of the sun: The driver’s side window heats up, and although it can feel nice there is such thing as “Trucker’s Arm”. Truckers often get an awkward tan that occurs from a driver only getting sun to the left arm. It may be funny to look at, but as with all sun exposure, there are serious risks associated with it. Using a sun sleeve, sunscreen, window covers or just wearing long sleeves can help to protect from dangerous rays from the sun. Also stay hydrated while driving, it’s a wise idea to drink half your body weight in ounces every day.
4. Beware of the weather: Summer weather can change drastically and give no notice. Be aware of what kind of weather is up ahead and what could be coming to the area, use apps on your phone or the local radio station to keep informed.
5. Check your tires often: Under-inflated tires will wear quicker in the heat, and can be hazardous to your drive. The combination of heat and under-inflation can drastically increase the chances of a blowout. Be sure to check your tire pressure frequently throughout your route.
6. Track your heart rate: If you feel dizzy or nauseous while driving it would be smart to start wearing a heart monitor while you drive your truck.  Exercising outside or driving without air conditioning  in warm weather can increase your risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Truck drivers are delivering goods that fuel the economy, stock the shelves at local stores, and fill the pantries of every family in the United States. The trucking industry impacts the daily lives of Americans in more ways than anyone can imagine. Truck drivers are operating much larger, heavier vehicles than normal summer drivers and have a very different degree of responsiveness. This is why it’s important for truck drivers to drive wisely and stay extra alert during the summer months!