How To Get Better Sleep as a Truck Driver
March 24, 2016 11:38 am 2 CommentsThose who spend a lot of time on the road know that one of the most major challenges can be making sure you get plenty of sleep. For truck drivers, this is especially true. Even though driving hours are now regulated to ensure drivers are well rested over the road, it can still be tough to get some solid shut-eye when you’re making use of a sleeper cab.
Drowsy driving is downright dangerous. That’s why getting plenty of sleep is so important for a safe and successful career on 18 wheels. With a little bit of extra planning, you can be sure to get all the peaceful sleep you need no matter where the road takes you. Keep reading for a few tips from Smith Transport to make your nights more peaceful.
First, let’s identify some of the biggest obstacles to a good night’s sleep. The three most common issues relate to light, sound, and atmosphere.
Light
To crack down on lights creeping into in your cab, there are a couple of steps you can take. As you surely know, parking away from parking lot lights will help a good bit. However, you may feel safer in a more lit area so a great way to get the best of both worlds is to park safety near some light, then make use of your sunshade to keep it outside of the cab.
While you may enjoy dozing off to your favorite TV show or playing on your phone before bed, these extra lights can hurt your sleep once you’re down for the count. Light and sound stimulates the brain, making it more difficult to fall asleep.
You may also consider a high quality sleep mask that will be both comfortable and a great way to keep your atmosphere dark and cozy.
Sound
We know it isn’t always easy to find a perfectly silent truck stop, but there are ways to cut down on unwanted noises that can disturb your rest. Between the diesel engines, air brakes, doors opening and closing, and general sounds of other truckers milling about, converting your cab into a quiet paradise requires some creativity.
Other than turning down your Qualcomm, the most basic choice is to invest in some earplugs. You can also look into the advantages of a white noise machine or other sleep sound device, such as a free app like “Rain, Rain Sleep Sounds.” We feel it’s far better to sleep with a pleasant sound than to try to avoid all noise altogether, especially with something physically in your ears. It’s completely up to your personal preference!
Atmosphere
Finally, make sure that your environment is comfortable in general. A sleeping pad is an excellent investment! As comfortable as sleeper cabs are these days, especially in the top-of-the-line equipment operated by Smith Transport, a little extra comfort never hurts. As the summer heats up, consider investing in a battery powered air conditioner. These can be charged during the day to keep you cool at night, and makes complying with idling laws a breeze. Another great option is a truck window screen. These help let in cool air while keeping out those buzzing mosquitos.
At Smith Transport, we want our drivers to be happy, well rested and ready to go every time they hit the road. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to a fantastic night’s sleep every night.
Also looking for a fantastic truck driving career? Smith Transport is THE place to be! We are an elite fleet with great pay and top-of-the-line equipment. It’s a place where you can develop personal relationships with colleagues rather than being “just a number.” You’ll love it here!
Contact us today at 866-265-3718 or smith-recruiting@smithtransport.com or apply now.
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well. first you have nice looking rigs. that means a lot to some one like me. I’ve had conv. pets starting in 1976 .I like to keep one clean inside and out. I guess you have your engine for fuel mileage that fine as long as it pulls good. a good looking truck makes a job much easer. from what I’ve read about your co. you care about these things to. I think it would be a privilege to drive for a co like yours. do your job do it right no problem.
good tips.