Summer means longer days, more miles, and busier highways. But it also introduces new risks for truck drivers—from blinding glare to increased amount of construction zones. To stay safe and also to protect others, it is essential to know and understand how to navigate seasonal hazards. Let’s look at four of the most common summertime truck driving risks, and how to handle each one like a pro.
1. Sun Exposure Inside the Cab
There is a common misconception that the majority of the sun’s damaging UV rays are blocked by truck windows. In reality, while most truck windshields filter out around 96% of harmful UV rays, side windows only block about 44%. That means the driver’s left arm, face, and neck are at higher risk for sun damage—even while they are in the cab for Truck Driving Risks. In fact, research shows that roughly 75% of unfortunate melanoma cases occur on the left side of the body, likely due to sun exposure while driving.
Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30+ before starting your shift on the road is the simplest way to protect the skin while you’re inside your cab. It is advised to reapply the sunscreen every two hours, especially if sweating or wiping your face, during the breaks from driving. When outside the cab, it is advised to wear UV-protective clothing and a hat, when possible.
2. Glare from the sun is Truck Driving Risks
Sun glare is another major risk associated with summertime driving. It can occur at any time during the day, but is usually worse just after sunrise and before sunset. Glare reduces visibility, obscures signs, and can make it hard to see other vehicles.
Wearing a quality pair of polarized sunglasses and positioning your truck’s sun visors strategically to block the sun’s direct rays might help reduce glare and eye strain.
To help you drive when the sun is directly beaming on your windshield, make sure to keep it clean and free of cracks. Debris and cracks in the glass may further scatter sunlight, making it harder to see clearly. Additionally, when there is sun glare, remove any reflective objects from your dash since the light that bounces off of it might make it harder to see.
3. Motorcyclists on the road
Warmer weather brings more motorcycles onto the roads. It’s more crucial than ever to understand how to drive safely around motorbikes due to the sharp rise in both the number of registered motorcycles and motorcycle riders in recent years.
First of all, one should never trail a motorbike too closely. Leave at least twice as much distance behind motorcycles you would do for a car. In addition to having brake lights that are usually less noticeable than those of automobiles, motorcycles can stop quicker than cars. Following too closely behind a motorbike increases the likelihood of an unintentional rear-end collision or a sideswipe.
Additionally, regularly check your blind areas for motorbikes, especially when you are about to make a lane change or a turn. Compared to autos, these little vehicles may blend into truck driver’s blind spots easily.
Lastly, keep in mind that many motorcycle-related fatalities happen when a truck or automobile driver turns left when a motorbike is trying to go straight. Many motorcycle accidents occur when drivers misjudge their speed. To help avoid this kind of incident, use additional caution while turning to the left.
4. Construction zones
Summer is the peak season for roadworks, and there are several potential risks while driving through these areas. In reality, a significant truck collision in a construction zone occurs approximately every three days in the U.S., according to the Federal Highway Administration. Additionally, truck drivers colliding with objects or people in the work zone account for around 49% of fatal construction zone accidents on rural interstates.
To reduce the risk of getting into an accident in a work zone this summer, always follow the indicated speed limit for work zones and drive carefully in these areas to see any obstacles before a potential collision. If you need to change lanes while entering a work zone, merge early and carefully, being mindful of your blind spots.
Last but not least, do not overlook maintaining the appropriate safe following distance while they are in a work zone, even in slow-moving traffic.
Bonus Tip: Review Your Truck Insurance Coverage
Driving in summer does not have to mean added risk, if one prepares. From glare to gridlock, sunburn to surprise roadwork, knowing what to expect and how to respond can keep you and others safe on the road.
Before peak season gets into full swing, take a few minutes to review your commercial truck insurance coverage. Rates, coverage options, and state regulations might change. You want to be sure you are properly protected, and possibly pay less for the same coverage.
GIA Group LLC specialize in truck insurance designed to keep the truckers covered no matter the season. Whether you are on the road every day or preparing for a busy summer, their experts can help you optimize your policy and reduce potential costs.