Summer is here in the UK, and while it might bring better weather, it can also bring its own driving challenges. For professional drivers, staying prepared is key to keeping cool and keeping your vehicle running smoothly during hot temperatures.
Whether you’re a taxi driver, trucker, minibus driver, or motor trader, here are five simple but effective tips to help you manage the heat while working this summer.
1. Carry out checks before each journey
You should carry out essential checks on your vehicle before setting off at any time of the year, not just in summer, but higher temperatures can introduce additional risks.
Before your journey, you should look out for:
- Air conditioning – to keep you cool so you can stay focused and alert while driving.
- Oil and coolant levels – to prevent your engine from overheating.
- Tyre pressure and tread depth – for safe braking, steering, accelerating, and adequate road grip.
- Battery (if you drive an EV) – keep in mind that a single charge may not take you as far as usual, and your battery may also take longer to charge.
- Your dashboard – remove anything that could be dangerous after prolonged exposure to heat, such as sat navs or mobile phones.
2. Pack an emergency kit
In hotter weather, breakdowns can happen when you least expect them. A basic emergency kit can make a big difference.
Include items such as:
- Bottled water
- Phone charger
- Sunglasses
- Sun cream
- Screen wash
- First aid kit.
A few simple tools and a warning triangle are also worth keeping in your boot.
It doesn’t take up much space, but it can help you stay safe and comfortable if you’re ever stuck waiting for recovery.
3. Stay alert on the road
Warmer weather often means busier roads, and more pedestrians, cyclists, and tourists can mean more distractions than usual. A few small adjustments can help you stay sharp throughout the day.
Take extra care in busy areas like motorways, seaside towns, city centres, and event venues. People may not always follow road rules as closely when they’re unfamiliar with the area.
Fatigue can also creep in during long, hot shifts. Make sure to take regular breaks, especially on long-haul journeys, as pushing through tiredness can be dangerous.
4. Keep comfortable and cool
Hot weather can make long shifts more tiring than usual, so it’s important to look after yourself while working.
Stay hydrated throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Bring a bottle of water with you and take regular sips between jobs.
Light clothing can also make a difference, helping you stay comfortable without overheating. Use air conditioning to keep the inside of your vehicle at a steady temperature.
5. Think smart when parking
Try to park in shaded areas where possible to keep your vehicle cool between jobs. This also helps reduce wear on interiors, makes it more comfortable for passengers, and can help protect any goods being transported.
If you’re leaving your vehicle for an extended period, make sure it’s secure by rolling your windows all the way up and avoiding leaving valuables on display. Unsecured vehicles in busy summer hotspots can attract opportunistic theft.
Never leave vulnerable passengers or animals in your vehicle for extended periods during hot weather – temperatures can climb quickly and become dangerous.
Final thoughts
Summer driving doesn’t need to be difficult. With a few simple checks and a bit of forward planning, you can drive with confidence and stay comfortable in the warm weather.
As a professional driver, it’s always a good idea to make sure you have the right insurance in place to keep you covered if the unfortunate happens. We offer professional driver insurance to taxi drivers, fleet owners, motor traders, and more. Visit our website today to learn more about how we can help protect your livelihood.
