Independence Day is just around the corner. Aside from fireworks, food, and celebrations, this holiday is also marked by a huge increase in traffic. According to WalletHub.com, 46.9 million Americans will travel 5o or more miles from home this Fourth of July; a record high. With more vehicles on the road, there’s also a greater risk for traffic accidents. In fact, the Fourth of July is considered one of the most dangerous holidays of the year. Despite the risks, truckers must continue to do their jobs, which is why we’ve compiled a list of Fourth of July safety tips for truckers. Keep reading!
Fourth of July Safety for Truckers
Stay Alert
This one applies to truckers all year long, but it’s especially important during periods of heavier traffic. Make sure you’re well-rested and not distracted. The number of drunk driving accidents increases significantly on the Fourth, so it’s crucial for truckers to be careful and attentive. That said, if you’re feeling tired, get some rest. Many studies show that drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Lastly, stay aware of other drivers on the road as well. No matter how safely you’re driving, one reckless driver is a danger to everyone else on the road.
Watch Your Speed
If you find yourself outpacing the traffic around you, slow down. Additionally, remember to reduce your speed if you’re driving in areas where there may be families and large groups of people. Also, remember to keep a safe following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Be Mindful of the Weather
The Fourth of July falls smack-dab in the middle of thunderstorm season, so severe weather safety is a must for truckers. We all know that the weather can change quickly in many parts of the country, so it’s important to check the weather for your route ahead of time. If there’s a chance of severe weather, consider taking an alternate route. If you can’t monitor the weather closely and pull over if conditions get too dangerous to drive.
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Expect Delays
Like we said before, almost 47 million people will be on the road this Fourth of July. With all the hustle and bustle, it’s very possible for truckers to get caught in a traffic jam or two. So, it’s best to plan your route ahead of time and account for potential delays. While many people can afford to be late to their destinations, truck drivers often cannot.
Limit Distractions
Many truckers like to talk to their loved ones on the phone while driving, but this might not be such a good idea this time of year. While it’s possible to talk while keeping your eyes on the road, it still requires your mind to focus. In addition, try not to eat while you’re driving. One second of looking away from the road to open a bag of chips could have big, potentially dangerous consequences.
Maintain Your Truck
Summertime can really take a toll on trucks, so make sure your rig is road-worthy and well-maintained. During the summer, it’s a good idea to check your tire pressure more regularly to avoid blowouts. If your tires are underinflated, fix the problem as soon as you can!
While many – if not all – of these tips apply to truckers year-round, it’s never a bad idea to offer suggestions for staying safe on the road. Remember, implementing small safety procedures can make a big difference for you, and everyone else on the road.
Do you have any more Fourth of July safety tips for truckers? Feel free to let us know in the comments below, or reach out to us on Facebook or Twitter!
