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Drowsy driving can pose significant safety risks on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving is responsible for about 100,000 crashes each year, resulting in more than 71,000 injuries. While long hours behind the wheel can be grueling, and you may be tempted to push through fatigue, it’s essential to understand the toll sleep deprivation takes on drivers. Here are some tips to help you avoid driver fatigue.
1. Getting Enough Sleep While this may be the most basic tip, it’s also the most important. Sleep is critical for staying sharp on the road. Any time you get less than the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, your driving performance suffers. Prioritizing adequate rest is key to staying alert. 2. Sustaining a Good Diet Skipping meals or eating irregularly can increase drowsiness. Consuming heavy meals right before driving can also lead to fatigue, and eating a large meal before bed can disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to less restorative rest. Be sure to eat regularly and avoid heavy meals at inopportune times. 3. Taking a Break If you start to feel drowsy while driving, stopping and taking a break to recharge is crucial. A short nap (up to 45 minutes) has been shown to restore alertness. While strict schedules may make breaks feel like an inconvenience, prioritizing rest is essential for safety. 4. Don’t Rely on Alertness Tricks Tricks like rolling down the window, turning up the radio, and overconsuming caffeine are usually referred to as ways to stay awake when driving fatigued; however, they are typically only short-term fixes. The security these provide to some drivers can also be dangerous as you feel compelled to keep driving, ignoring your impairment. Drowsy driving is entirely preventable. By following these tips, you can ensure you’re always at your best behind the wheel. Stay safe out there, drivers!
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Did you know that wet pavement contributes to nearly 70% of weather-related crashes in the U.S.? With spring rains on the horizon, staying safe on the road is more important than ever. Rain affects a large portion of the United States and can come quickly if you aren’t ready for it. It turns an easy drive into a drive where everything can instantly change. To be sure you’re prepared for it, here are five tips to ensure you deliver your freight promptly and safely in the rain.
1. Be prepared As always, inspecting your equipment before you start your travel is paramount. Checking tire pressure during your pre/post-trip inspections is critical for safe operation during adverse weather conditions. Even the slightest piece of faulty equipment can lead to issues on the road, so make sure you do your checks and have all of your truck’s equipment in good shape before you take off. 2. Drive cautiously Driving in the rain requires patience and heightened awareness. Drive slowly to avoid hydroplaning, as that is the worst-case scenario. Finding “space” is also more critical during these conditions. Maintain safe distances from other drivers on the road and ensure you adjust your braking technique. Caution is the key to safety, and safety comes above all. 3. Keep your focus Maintaining focus is essential no matter the situation, but it’s even more important when driving in adverse conditions. Avoid distractions like eating or drinking. Avoid being on the phone completely during severe or inclement weather. If being on the phone is absolutely necessary, remember the regulatory requirements for needing to be hands-free. Make sure your headlights are on, and keep your awareness heightened at all times. 4. Make stops when necessary If the conditions become too dangerous to continue, decrease speed, and depending upon the state of which you are operating, if emergency flashers are necessary, use them. The following states have laws against driving with emergency flashers except in an emergency or in other specific instances: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Montana, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Do not come to a complete stop on the highway or emergency lanes during inclement weather. Slow down until you can find a location off of the highway to stop. While this may impact delivery timelines, the driver's safety comes above all. 5. Communication Keeping dispatch informed about all weather events, road closures, and delays can be your greatest resource in scenarios like this. They can provide insight and help you through all sorts of tough situations. By following these precautions, you'll ensure your safety and that of other drivers on the road. Stay alert, stay prepared, and drive safely this rainy season. As the summer heat gives way to cooler breezes and vibrant foliage, fall is the perfect time for truck drivers to enjoy some of the most scenic routes the U.S. offers. While you're out delivering goods across the country, why not take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the road? In this month’s blog, we'll share some breathtaking autumn routes and offer safety tips to help you enjoy the views while staying safe on your journey.
1. Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire) Known for its brilliant display of fall colors, the 34.5-mile Kancamagus Highway runs through New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest. The crisp mountain air and towering maples, birches, and oaks create a vibrant autumn palette, making this a must-see for any driver passing through New England. Tip: This area can be crowded with tourists during peak fall foliage season, so try to drive through during weekdays or off-peak hours. Always check the weather before heading out, as early autumn snowstorms aren’t unheard of in this region. 2. Great River Road (Mississippi River, Multiple States) Stretching over 2,000 miles along the Mississippi River, the Great River Road passes through 10 states, from Minnesota to Louisiana. Fall transforms this route into a colorful corridor lined with trees and river views that showcase the changing season’s glory. Tip: This route offers plenty of stopping points to pull over safely, admire the river, and take a break. Be aware of foggy mornings near the river, as visibility can be challenging. 3. Pacific Coast Highway (California) Though California is known for its warm weather, the Pacific Coast Highway offers a unique fall experience with stunning coastal views and seasonal foliage in northern sections. This iconic highway runs along the coast, providing incredible ocean views and crisp autumn air. Tip: Be mindful of coastal fog and winding roads. The cliffs along certain sections of the highway can make driving tricky, so keep your focus sharp and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. 4. Scenic Byway 12 (Utah) Scenic Byway 12 in Utah is a gem for those traveling through the Southwest. This 122-mile route offers incredible fall scenery, weaving through red rock formations and forests that glow with yellow aspens. The unique contrast of colors makes it a one-of-a-kind drive during the fall season. Tip: Be prepared for dramatic elevation changes, which can affect both your truck’s performance and the weather. Check your brakes regularly and be cautious when descending steep grades. 5. Ozark National Forest (Arkansas) Arkansas’ Ozark National Forest offers a stunning fall display that includes a mix of mountains, forests, and rivers. Routes like Arkansas Scenic Byway 7 will take you through the heart of this forest, providing picturesque views of autumn colors against the backdrop of the Ozarks. Tip: This is an excellent route if you're looking for a peaceful drive, but the roads can be narrow. Watch out for wildlife and ensure your headlights are clean to maximize visibility on shaded roads. Remember to always keep safety in mind, stay alert, and be attentive in public areas while enjoying these scenic routes. Safety is just as important as the beauty around you. Share your experience with us. Have a favorite scenic fall route? Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear where you like to drive during this beautiful season. October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a crucial time to reflect on the importance of digital safety. In today's interconnected world, safeguarding personal and business information is more vital than ever. From phishing scams to ransomware attacks, cyber threats continue to evolve, and it’s up to each of us to remain vigilant. Whether you're an individual user or managing a large organization, understanding cybersecurity basics is critical to protecting yourself and your business from potential risks.
Here’s how you can stay cyber safe and avoid becoming a victim of the ever-growing number of online threats: 1. Strengthen Your Passwords Weak passwords are a hacker’s best friend. Ensure your passwords are strong, unique, and challenging to guess. Incorporate a combination of uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters. A password manager can help you generate and store secure passwords for multiple accounts. 2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Passwords alone aren’t always enough. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) provides an added layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or an authentication app. This helps ensure that even if a password is compromised, unauthorized users won’t be able to access your accounts. 3. Beware of Phishing Scams Phishing attacks are on the rise and are one of the most common cyber threats. These attacks usually come in the form of suspicious emails, texts, or messages designed to trick you into revealing personal information or clicking malicious links. Be wary of unsolicited messages that ask for sensitive information or direct you to unfamiliar websites. Always verify the legitimacy of the sender before responding. 4. Keep Software and Devices Updated Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. To combat this, always install updates for your operating system, apps, and antivirus software as soon as they become available. This ensures security patches are in place and helps keep your systems secure from potential threats. 5. Practice Safe Browsing Habits Not all websites are safe. Use trusted, secure sites (look for "https" in the URL) and avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or ads. Also, be cautious when sharing personal information online and ensure your connection is secure before entering sensitive data. 6. Educate and Train Your Team If you're a business owner or manager, your employees are your first line of defense against cyber threats. Educating them on cybersecurity best practices—such as recognizing phishing emails, safe browsing habits, and the importance of regular software updates—can go a long way in protecting your business. Consider offering regular cybersecurity training sessions to keep your team informed and prepared. 7. Backup Your Data Regularly Accidents happen, and data breaches or system failures can lead to the loss of critical information. Regularly backing up your data ensures that you can recover critical files and avoid potential disruption to your business. Store backups in secure, offline locations and test them periodically to ensure they work correctly. 8. Secure Wi-Fi Networks Unsecured Wi-Fi networks can provide easy access for hackers. Always use encrypted, password-protected Wi-Fi at home and in the office. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive tasks like banking or accessing personal accounts when on the go. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to add an extra layer of protection when working remotely. 9. Be Cautious with Downloads Downloading software, apps, or files from untrusted sources can open the door to malware and viruses. Only download files from reputable websites and avoid opening email attachments from unknown senders. When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and delete suspicious files. 10. Report Suspicious Activity If you notice anything out of the ordinary—such as unexpected pop-ups, unusual login attempts, or unfamiliar devices on your network—report it immediately to the appropriate place, such as your social media platform, email provider, or IT department. Quick action can prevent a minor issue from turning into a major security breach. Final Thoughts Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue—it’s everyone’s responsibility. This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take the time to protect yourself and your business by implementing these practices. Staying vigilant and educated about the latest cyber threats can make all the difference in keeping your data secure. Remember, the digital world is full of opportunities, but it’s also full of risks. Taking proactive steps to protect yourself online will ensure your personal information and business stay safe in an increasingly connected world. Stay cyber aware, stay cyber safe. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the pivotal role that truck drivers play in keeping our world running smoothly. These dedicated professionals ensure that our orders reach their destinations and our shelves remain stocked, all in a timely manner. Without their commitment and skill, our modern world would likely rumble to a halt.
Here are our five reasons why we’re grateful for our truck drivers: 1. They’re Committed to the Job Truck drivers embody dedication and reliability. Rain or shine, day or night, they brave the road to deliver goods across vast distances. Their commitment ensures that businesses stay operational and consumers receive the products they need. 2. They Keep Things Running Smoothly Imagine a world where goods didn’t reach their destinations on time. Truck drivers prevent this scenario by maintaining efficient transport networks. Whether it’s food, medicine, or everyday essentials, they facilitate the smooth flow of goods from manufacturers to retailers. 3. They Know the Importance of Family Despite spending considerable time on the road, truck drivers cherish their families deeply. Many make sacrifices to ensure they can provide for their loved ones while balancing the demands of their profession. Their commitment to both work and family serves as a testament to their strong values. 4. Their Driving Skills Are Second to None Navigating a large truck through highways and city streets requires exceptional skill and precision. Truck drivers undergo rigorous training to master these challenges, ensuring safety for themselves and other road users. Their expertise behind the wheel is invaluable to maintaining traffic flow and preventing accidents. 5. Truckers Bring Us Everything We Enjoy From fresh produce to new gadgets, truck drivers deliver a vast array of goods that enrich our lives. They connect producers with consumers, bridging distances and bringing communities closer together. The convenience and abundance we often take for granted are made possible by their relentless efforts. Truck drivers’ contributions to our economy and daily lives are truly immeasurable. Next time you see a truck on the road or receive a package at your doorstep, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and hard work of the truckers in your life. As days grow longer and temperatures rise, summer brings its own set of challenges for truck drivers. Long hours on the road, scorching heat, and increased traffic can make the summer months particularly demanding. However, with some preparation and smart strategies, you can stay cool, safe, and comfortable during your summer hauls. Here are five quick tips to help you navigate the summer season on the road.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate Staying hydrated is crucial when you're driving in hot weather. Keep a supply of water or electrolyte drinks in your cab and sip regularly throughout the day. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary drinks, as they can lead to dehydration. Beat the Heat Invest in a quality sunshade for your windshield to keep your cab cooler when parked. Park in shaded areas whenever possible and consider using a portable fan to help maintain a comfortable temperature inside your truck during rest breaks. Protect Your Skin Exposure to the sun's UV rays, even through your windshield and driver’s side window, can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF rating and remember to reapply it regularly. Consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to provide additional protection when outdoors. Maintain Your Vehicle Summer heat can take a toll on your truck's engine, tires, and cooling system. Make sure to keep up-to-date on regular maintenance checks to ensure everything is in proper working order. Pay special attention to your tires, as hot pavement can increase the risk of blowouts. Keep an eye on your engine temperature gauge and pull over immediately if you notice any signs of overheating. Stay Alert Longer daylight hours and warmer weather can lead to more drivers on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. Stay vigilant and focused while driving and be prepared for sudden changes in traffic patterns. Take regular breaks to rest and recharge, and never drive drowsy. By following these tips, you can beat the heat and make the most of the longer, hotter, summer days. Stay safe out there, and happy trails! We keep our fleet fresh. Our goal is to always cycle in new equipment to keep our drivers rolling and our loads moving. This is why we decided to add Peterbilt to our fleet.
Since this addition, there has been quite a buzz of interest around what kind of amenities these new Peterbilts feature, what exactly they have under the hood, and how they differ from our Volvos. We put together this list of specifications for our Petes and Volvos to help answer these questions. Oakley Transport's new Peterbilts offer a premium driver environment that is ergonomic and highly comfortable. SPECIFICATIONS: PETERBILT 579 72” HB SLEEPER TRACTORS (TANKER)
SPECIFICATIONS: PETERBILT 579 80” UL SLEEPER TRACTORS (DRY VAN/REEFER)
Our Volvo VNLs offer top of the line comfort and amenities so you can be the best driver you can be out on the road. SPECIFICATIONS: VOLVO VNL 740 SLEEPER TRACTORS (TANKER & DRY BULK)
SPECIFICATIONS: VOLVO VNL 760 SLEEPER TRACTORS (DRY VAN REEFER)
In Lake Wales, Florida, we have a full-service tractor and trailer repair facility, staffed with over 20 well-trained and qualified technicians to handle all maintenance repairs. In order to maintain our fleet of Volvo tractors, we are an assigned Volvo training facility. Our technicians can acquire Volvo certification on-site through the customer service portal (Volvo University). The body shop can produce factory-type finishing and is equipped with full-time employees who are highly qualified to repair all types of body damage. We take pride in our early preventative maintenance program, scheduling PMs well before they are needed so we can ensure that the equipment is operating at peak performance. From the newest models of Peterbilt and Volvo tractors to our state-of-the-art equipment, we believe in investing in the best equipment to keep our drivers and customers happy. For the ninth consecutive year in a row, our Oakley family is helping spread holiday cheer through our annual toy drive. We are honored to be donating toys to be dispersed to children and families in need by the Lake Wales Care Center. It’s our small yet caring way to help give back to our local community during the holidays.
Last year, there was such a tremendous outpouring of donations that the Lake Wales Care Center had to come and pick up the goodies in two separate trips. Already this year, we have had numerous Oakley family members generously give to help provide less fortunate families with an unforgettable holiday experience for their children. We are so proud of the giving spirit that is embodied by our Oakley family. The spirit of the season is truly exemplified through the kindness and willingness to give out of the goodness of our hearts. The world is a better place because of the people we call family; the Oakley Transport family. We have donation bins located at our Lake Wales and Auburndale terminals for your convenience. Please feel free to drop off any time during the day. Let’s be sure to make this year the best year yet! All donations will be picked up by the Lake Wales Care Center on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. Unusually heavy traffic is inevitable during the holiday season. Heavy traffic not only causes vehicles to constantly stop and go, but many drivers tend to grow impatient, increasing the likelihood of accidents by changing lanes often, failing to keep safe distance, and sometimes even cutting in front of fully loaded trucks. Crowded roads coupled with bad weather conditions like snow, ice, hail, or rain can impact a driver’s visibility. This can cause roads to become slippery and further contribute to a greater chance of an accident.
While we are proud to have some of the best driving professionals out there, it never hurts to freshen up on some critical safety practices to help face the extra drivers and the freezing temperatures during the holiday season. Safety is top priority for Oakley Transport, and there’s no better time than now to put your best safety methods into practice. Driving a tractor-trailer during the holiday season demands more than just good maneuvering and safe speeds—it requires forethought and preparation. Seasoned drivers implement preventative safety skills for driving in poor conditions, keep a safe zone, and have the foresight to know when it’s time to take a break and get off the road. Follow these 5 quick tips this season to help keep yourself and the drivers around you safe. Precheck Because winter weather causes increased unpredictability on the road, it’s best that you and your rig are ready for anything. It is always important to check your truck before leaving the terminal, but this time of year make sure to set aside a little extra time to be extremely thorough to ensure that the defroster, heater and wipers are working properly. If need be, dislodge snow from your windshield, windows, hood, roof, and lights. Ensure your truck, tires, breaks, APU, trailers, or tankers are in pristine condition. Slow Down and Keep a Safe Zone Driving at the speed limit may be legal but is often too fast for a crowded roadway or poor road conditions. It’s important to be prepared to slow down in response to changes on the road. Slowing down offers time to take corrective action and respond to erratic drivers, stop-and-go traffic, bad weather conditions, and poor visibility. Take as much time as necessary. Don’t hurry and make sure to leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the vehicles in front of and beside your truck when possible. Find a safe way to get away from the pack and travel alone with the goal being to maximize the distance around your vehicle. Stay Calm Impatient holiday drivers may indulge in road rage behaviors, like tailgating, weaving between lanes, cutting off, break-checking, or otherwise harassing other drivers—this puts themselves and others at risk for accidents. Road rage is a serious threat to safe driving. Be sure to stay calm and keep a level head. Don’t let their anger control your driving. De-escalate road rage situations by increasing the distance between yourself and angry drivers. You may even want to add a little more distance by taking a break. Good Judgment Outside of taking mandatory breaks, be sure to take additional breaks if you are feeling frustrated or sleepy. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of the other motorists. If the weather is so severe that you need to get off the road, find a place to get off the road safely and wait until conditions are safe. Make sure not to stop on the shoulder of the road, especially in low visibility situations. Other vehicles can mistake your position for being on the road and as a result, may slam into the back of your rig. Be Prepared Road conditions can rapidly change. Be prepared for a variety of potential emergency situations. Stock your cab with water, snacks, a first aid kit, a change of clothes, and blankets so you can comfortably and safely weather unexpected conditions that may require you to pull off the road or wait long periods. Everyone knows that highway work zones can be a dangerous place. Hazardous work zone driving conditions are created by uneven pavement, loose gravel, narrowed lanes, concrete barriers, inattentive drivers, vehicles making sudden stops and/or sudden merges, and speeding. Professional drivers frequently encounter work zones and know just how imperative it is to be on the lookout for changing road and traffic conditions and being prepared for the unexpected.
Here are six tips to keep in mind when driving through work zones. 1. Know before you go Map out your trip before you leave to see if you will be going through any construction zones. Highway agencies will post about various zones and detours to help you avoid the work zones. For more information on national traffic and road closures, check out the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). 2. Take it slow Remember that a trip through a work zone may take longer. Normal speed limits are reduced in construction zones. Be sure to slow down when approaching the zone and be prepared to drive slower than the posted work zone speed limit if needed in order to increase reaction time and allow yourself a good following distance. 3. Maintain one lane When approaching a construction zone, be prepared to merge if necessary, and merge early. If possible, stay in that lane. Avoid aggressive behaviors such as driving on the shoulder and blocking lanes so others can’t get in. Additionally, you will want to stay extra alert for flaggers in a construction zone. Be prepared to follow a flagger’s directions. In a construction zone, a flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign. 5. Drive defensively, keeping a proper following distance It is important to keep a safe distance between your vehicle, traffic barriers, construction equipment, and construction workers, as well as maintaining a good following distance. Always be thinking about possible situations of how a hazard can present itself so you have a plan on what your next move could be. Adding a few more seconds of distance in construction zones is highly recommended because you never know when a hazard is going to present itself. 6. Keep an eye on the road ahead Looking a minimum of 15 seconds ahead (eye-lead time) allows time to identify and react to hazards, giving you the opportunity to determine the safest course of action. Pay attention to obstacles, debris and construction workers and construction vehicles that may enter the line of traffic. This will help in anticipating problems and reacting in time. |
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Oakley Transport, Inc.
101 ABC Road Lake Wales, FL 33859 Toll Free 1(800) 969-8265 Local 1(863) 638-1435 |
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