How to Stay Safe While Driving an Ultra Coachliner at Night
Driving at night presents many unique risks for drivers and passengers. Luckily, there are several ways that drivers can stay safe while driving an Ultra Coachliner at night. There will always be a few unknown situations to watch out for, but you can limit those to the best of your ability with proper preparation.
Avoid Driving When Tired
Most drivers get a schedule ahead of time. So, in theory, there should be no excuse for starting the job feeling sleep deprived. Plan your preceding days accordingly so that you are as energized as possible before getting to work. If you are still tired on the evening of the trip, taking a 20- to 30-minute power nap can work wonders for you. Doing this will give you the rest you need without making you too groggy.
Clean the Windshield
We all know that windshields can become covered in dead bugs by the end of a road trip. Because of this, you should never start a journey with a dirty window. Clean it to the best of your ability before you leave, and consider replacing the wipers when they begin to leave streaks while in use. Also, the insides of windshields are notorious for getting dusty and grimy without us being aware of it. Wipe your windshield’s inner surface down before you leave to make your visibility much crisper.
Drive the Speed Limit
Although this is obvious for most people, driving the speed limit or below it is another tip for how to stay safe while driving an Ultra Coachliner at night. It can be tempting to speed up to get to your destination or the next rest stop quicker, but you’re just putting yourself and dozens of people at risk. Driving slow gives you more time to react to surprises that can happen, such as vehicle swerving or deer that attempt to cross the road.
Increase Your Following Distance
Take care to give other vehicles lots of space as your drive. As with driving slower, you should put more distance between your bus and others to diminish the potential hazards around you. You can react better if something pops up unexpectedly. During the night, depth perception isn’t as accurate, and your field of vision diminishes. Put a buffer between your vehicle and potential hazards so that you have more time to respond as needed. While driving, you also want to ensure that your passengers have a comfy ride. Stopping too suddenly can disturb their sleep or make them uncomfortable.
Vary What You Listen To
While on the road for hours at a time, you may inadvertently zone out as you continuously gaze at the repetitive sights and sounds. The hum of the engine can coax you into a relaxed state, and the passing road lights can be hypnotizing. One way to help yourself stay awake is to listen to various things during the trip. For example, you could switch between music, podcasts, or audiobooks. It’s also beneficial to add plain old silence to the mix once in a while. Rotating what your mind can focus on in the background will help it feel fresh and awake.
Eat Healthy Foods
Convenience stores load up on comfort foods for a reason. People love them. But this fact doesn’t mean you have to give in to the temptation. It can be enticing to reach for candy bars, salty treats, and soda from the gas station to fuel your trip. Eventually, though, these snacks and drinks will make you crash. As a driver, you want a steady level of vitality for the duration of the trip, not a roller coaster of energy that increases and declines. Choose snacks that won’t make your mind foggy. Meat, cheese, and nuts are good options. These foods will help sustain your energy for the night and also maintain your health in the long run.
Limit Caffeine
Many people around the world rely on caffeine as a source of energy. While it is the most accessible stimulant, it should never be your go-to as a pick-me-up. Monitor your caffeine intake accordingly with the rest of these tips to set yourself up for a successful night ride. Drinks with caffeine are prevalent choices. However, you must be aware of when you’ll crash after consuming them. Know your body and your limits.
Don’t Eat Too Much
Think back to the last big feast you had. Did you feel energized and ready to work afterward, or did you want to take a nap? We all know that heavy meals can make us sleepy and feel a need to lie down for a while to digest. Drivers should be extra mindful of keeping their meals smaller, lighter, and more frequent right before and during a trip. Heeding this pointer will help you maintain consistent energy levels throughout the night.
Take Breaks and Walk Around
Take breaks at as many rest stops as is appropriate for your trip. It’s important to release tension from your body and get the blood pumping again. Take a lap around the rest stop to energize your body. Stretch out your arms, chest, back, and hips to limit discomfort and any cramping from happening. While waiting for the passengers to finish their break, don’t just sit and check your phone the entire time. Give your mind a break so that it feels refreshed when it’s time to drive again.
Use High Beam Lights
While driving at night, federal regulations require the use of high beams. These are essential tools for any driver during the evening, as they can almost double your visibility. They should always be on at night unless there are people less than 500 feet in front of you. You should also refrain from using them in fog. You can also turn on your low beams during dawn and dusk, as the light is inconsistent during those times of the day.
Be Cautious Around Poor Drivers
Impaired drivers are an accident waiting to happen. Whether it’s because they have been drinking, are sleepy, or just distracted by something momentarily, avoid them by putting space between your two vehicles. Even if there is no collision, their driving could make you swerve or abruptly slow down, causing your passengers to feel momentary discomfort.
You are the professional responsible for driving people safely and comfortably to their destinations. While we have many luxury coach buses for sale, it is still crucial that you know how to stay as safe as possible after purchasing yours.
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