Sleep and rest are important considerations for any commercial truck driver. When you are a student at a CDL school, your instructors will provide you with tips and information about how to stay healthy and well rested when you are on a long haul journey. Getting rest will improve your safety behind the wheel, and will also ensure that you are following federally mandated standards. Read on for an overview of how to get proper rest on the road.
Plan a Rest Schedule
Your restfulness will be improved if you are able to create a consistent sleep schedule between shifts. By sleeping at the same time each day, you will be able to fall asleep more quickly and achieve a deeper state of sleep. Whenever it is possible, plan ahead and stop for a sleep break at regular intervals.
Avoid Caffeine and Sugar Before Sleeping
While you may be tempted to reach for a cup of coffee to help you stay awake, drinking too much caffeine or eating large quantities of sugar can prevent your ability to rest. To ensure that you are able to fall asleep, it is best to avoid all stimulating substances two to three hours before you go to bed. Instead, you can hydrate by drinking plenty of water.
Create a Restful Sleep Environment
At bedtime, you will want to sleep in an environment that is as restful as possible. Blocking out light sources, eliminating distracting noises, and maintaining your sleep space at a comfortable temperature will help you achieve a deeper state of rest. After you have gotten a full night’s sleep, you will be refreshed for your next driving shift.
For more truck driving tips and information, be sure to get in touch with HDS Truck Driving Institute by calling (877) 205-2141. We proudly provide our students with quality CDS training, and we will be thrilled to help you obtain your Arizona CDL. After you graduate from our Tucson CDL school, you will be fully prepared for your truck driving career.
