Night driving tips

Lady K:

I'm trying the 2am to 2pm shift, so I can feel your pain. I actually do well from 2 am to 5 am, then hit my wall as the sun comes up. I love some of these ideas, but the barefoot one is illegal in California (silly state has to legislate everything). Seriously. You can't drive barefoot in CA.

So funny to see someone else use Hot Tamales to stay awake. I use books on tape, Stitcher Radio podcasts, music, the occasional walk, and am trying to get used to using lots of water, rather than any caffeine.

More ideas... keep 'em coming!

 

True, commercial vehicle operators must wear a shoe or boot with a heel. Preferably like the boots Prince wore in Purple Rain.

 

I certainly hope you are joking. I thought every driver knew it was a dumb idea to leave anything in their back pocket while driving. Heck i was taught that in truck driving school back in 1991.

Seriousy, you better learn to put your wallet in your front pocket rather than your back pocket if your going to keep a healthy spine in this job.

 

One "tip" that should be your RULE......

If you see red taillights OR headlights in through your windshield, then be SURE you have your high beams OFF.

 

I usually end up taking a nap, half hour to an hour and a half, when I drive nights. Often, I'll do it right as the sky starts to lighten. Provided I have the time, I see no problem with it.

I find that I have to take a break every 2.5 hours, go to the bathroom, and walk around a few minutes. It lengthens my day, but if I don't do it, I end up in trouble. Either I have to pee so badly it makes me not pay attention, or I my mind starts to wander.

I use audiobooks a lot too, or things that talk. Music will make my mind wander, but I can follow along with audiobooks okay. I have a bad habit of watching them as they play out though, and in some cities that can be bad.

I keep a lot of cold water available when I drive. The water's refreshing, and it ensures I have to stop periodically to use the bathroom. My dad always drank a litre of Mt. Dew before he had to drive all night after working all day. As he puts it, it's hard to fall asleep when you have to pee really badly.

If I can't pull it off for a sleep, I will sometimes resort to an energy shot, but it's rare. I'm not one for caffeinated drinks other than tea, so it's my stand in when I absolutely have to drive.

Don't worry about not covering quite the miles your hubby does. My co driver and I have an understanding: I drive nights because I like it, and it's going to sacrifice a little milage, or else it's going to mean I have a 14 hour day and my co-driver gets a 9. It's and understanding that's worked for the last 4 years. If it ever gets to be a problem, I'll drive days, and my co driver can suffer through the nights. She gripes about driving nights, so the understanding holds.

 

It is ok to take a break. that is why they give you 14 hours to get your 11 hours driving.

Mikeeee

 

I did as much driving at night as possible due to traffic. My secret for staying awake: XM radio on a comedy station. You can't fall asleep while laughing your can off.

 

Great thread guys. I really needed that. Getting ready to 8pm to 8am shift soon. So these are really great tips!