Night driving .... AAHHHHHH!

I work nights as a chip hauler (just got home from work 20 minutes ago actually). It takes some getting used to. It's not so bad though. I struggled driving nights when I drove teams on long haul. I learned to avoid the energy drinks though. I haven't bought one since last summer. I drove fine all week, then drank one can of some energy drink, and I could barely stay awake the rest of the night. Won't do that again. And I suppose it's easier to drive nights in a day cab, due to the frequents stops we have to make.

 

ZOMBIE TRUCKER. I just pull over if I get to tired. You can't deliver the load if your in the ditch.

 

That contradicts what I've always read: a short, no more than 30 minute nap is most effective. You don't sleep long enough to get into deep REM sleep, so easier to wake. Holds true for me. If I sleep even 45 minutes it takes me another 30 to get my wits back. 30 min or less and I'm ready to roll in 5. I did it last night. Made it to 0400 and had to hit a rest area. 10 minute walk to the mens room and 15 in the bunk and I made it to sunrise. It also covered the official 30 minute break, not that I needed it this morning.

I will also agree with this not working well for younger folks. When I was in my 20's I'd have to be beaten awake from even a 15 minute nap. It's true the older you get the less sleep you need. Hauling a reefer I pretty much depend on my ability to sleep on demand.

 

won't disagree with you there.

as for music. iron maiden. nickleback. max volume. and the window cracked a little for fresh air.

 

My 6 months in the industry team driving I'm on the night shift. I find it easier BC less traffic. Window down for fresh air regardless of temperature. Usually octane unless Kevin's show is on. Probably helps too the fact I am constantly moving my leg... hate it at same time! Only once I failed to drive all through the night. Drove the first night, up most of day at the beach (had time for a detour) and that night I felt great first 7 hrs then faded fast. Nothing worked at that point. I pulled over and felt ashamed for not continuing on (really hate to not accomplish something lol) but after a 2 hr nap in the seat (pulled into rest area, applied brakes, leaned back and was out) I felt good enough to continue for a little while. I learned a valuable lesson that day. Listen to your body and be safe. Always hear it and tell people that its better to stop and rest, but for me I guess I had to experience it. Not even me being 22 could have helped me continue that night.

 

Glad to see another 22 year old! What region you run at night? Our age we (should) be able to run all the time, but some days that does/doesn't hold true for me.

 

It all comes with time and training. I had my body trained to run on 2 hours of sleep clear back in high school. It just takes time and getting acclimated. Looking back on it that probably saved my butt a few times driving as well...on the other hand It has probably contributed to why I feel so old at a young age as well.

 

Woody if night driving is an issue for you then I suggest finding another line of work.Its not going to get any better as long as you're OTR.

 

I never got tired when I was young. Use to drive 1000 miles no problem. Maybe that's why I'm tired all the time now. I wake up tired.: