HGV
Driving a car is easy for those who are physically and mentally capable. Driving a heavy goods vehicle (HGV), on the other hand, is not exactly a walk in the park. We have compiled our 4 top tips to aid you in your journey. It requires a high level of professionalism; you’ll need to have patience, determination, and strength, both physically and emotionally. HGV drivers are responsible for carefully and safely transporting heavy and high-value goods. They are also often required to endure long hours of driving, which also means long hours (or days) of being away from home. This is why it is essential to get top tips for the leading medical provider.
Despite the challenges, being a licensed HGV driver is highly rewarding. If you’re a new HGV driver preparing for your upcoming assignment, here are four top tips to keep you safe while driving.
Top Tip 1 – Adequate Preparation is Necessary
Driving a HGV requires more than basic driving skills. While the main goal is to deliver goods from point A to point B, careful planning is needed to ensure a safe and efficient journey. However, there could be quite a few things that can go wrong and cause issues.
You need a plan, and then another, in case the first plan doesn’t work. Before you begin your first journey, you need to plan, taking into account rest, refuelling stops, and possible alternative routes. What will you do when you get stuck in traffic, and you haven’t refuelled yet? What will you do and who will you call when you meet an accident along the way?
You can plan all these with your fleet leader or co-drivers. Just make sure that you stick with the plan.
Top Tip 2 – Stay hydrated.
You need to stay awake and alert while driving, as you’ll be on the road for hours. Staying hydrated can help you to maintain proper focus while driving. Here’s where it becomes tricky – you won’t know your thirsty until you’re already dehydrated. So, don’t wait to feel thirsty before you drink water. Drink little water often to keep yourself hydrated. When your body begins to get dehydrated, you might experience dizziness, exhaustion, and lack of focus—all of which are the ingredients for disaster behind the wheel.
Top Tip 3 – Know your vehicle height.
Bridges and tunnels typically have height limit posted. Before you even attempt getting through one, you need to know if your lorry can fit. You don’t want to be one of those drivers who find out too late. When you’re driving a huge vehicle, it can be difficult to judge its height from the inside. Before you leave the garage, measure your vehicle, and write down the exact height and width of the vehicle and stick it to your dashboard.
Top Tip 4 – Take sufficient breaks.
Before you leave, your fleet leader will give you a plan for breaks—how many to take and how long. Along the way, you might feel that you don’t need to rest, thinking that it’s better to finish the job earlier. However, when you do not take those recommended breaks, you will get tired sooner or later. More importantly, those breaks are mandated by law. So, if you want to stay awake on the road and away from legal scrutiny, take those breaks. Further details regarding the legislation on breaks can be found here.
If you’re seeking an opportunity in the industry, consult VitalMedicals for your driver’s medical. As an HGV driver, you’ll be spending most of your time on the road, and it’s crucial that you are always healthy. Talk to us now to make sure you’re in top health condition!
