How do you guys stay awake?

Proper rest. Good trip planning. Allow time for stop breaks. Don't be afraid to tell a Dispatcher no or /and stick to your guns, on your eta on a load that cannot be done legally or does not allow you time to stop or that is already late!. A dispatcher will never stand next to you or up for you in a court room or a safety review, and take the blame for you falling asleep and killing someone or rolling a truck. Remember that!

 

Keeping the same sleeping schedule every day.

 

H. O. S. used to be 8 hours sleeper, 10 hours driving....for 5+ decades.
Slower Trucks, Shorter Trailers, till, what, the 70's?

"Staying Awake",
You need find YOUR RYTHYM!!
Suggestions are notes, write 'em down.
There's no "One style fits all"!!

Keep Close To YOUR Circadian Rythym (Body Clock) and You'll Do Well!!

CHEERZ!!

 

You want to keep your mind active. Look in your mirrors and try to guess what people will do before they get there. Take a few glances at the scenery around you. Go slow and take it in, or go fast and focus on the road...

It will take a bit for you to adjust.

 

I try to take a unit that doesn't look tired..
If it starts heading for the rhubarb I pull over and let it rest for a few minutes.

 

Someone should give this guy the boot. Maybe their next account can keep their story straight.

 

Do not keep the cab hot, just warm.
No large meals, eat more often, smaller amounts, and healthy foods, not junk food.
Listen to the radio, but not loud.
Keep looking way ahead of the truck, its tiring to look to near the front of you.
Check your mirrors often, it keeps your mind engaged.
Drive a manual transmission, again it keeps you engaged with your truck.
Make regular, small adjustments to your seat position.
Don't drink a lot of coffee or pop, because it gives you a caffeine boost briefly, then your body crashes after.

 

Yeah, and you can't sleep when you need to if you drink too much.
Tired AF, and yet you can't sleep, or wake up too quickly.

 

Tooth picks