Big rig driver fatigue is a serious problem that can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. As a fleet manager in Bakersfield, California, it's your responsibility to ensure that your big rig drivers are well-rested and alert on the road. In this blog post, we'll provide some tips on how to combat big rig driver fatigue and keep your drivers safe.

Tip #1: Schedule Regular Breaks

One of the most effective ways to combat driver fatigue is to schedule regular breaks for your drivers. Ensure they take a break every 2-3 hours and leave the vehicle to stretch their legs and get fresh air. This will help to reduce fatigue and improve their alertness on the road. Getting to places on time is important–but so is their life. Though we can be really go go go in the fleet and big rig business, it’s important to remember at the end of the day that drivers need to slow down and take care of themselves sometimes. 

Tip #2: Provide Adequate Rest Time

It's important to ensure your drivers have enough time to rest between trips. Make sure that they get at least 8 hours of sleep per night, and schedule their trips so they have enough time to recover from fatigue before their next trip. One thing I’ve seen maintenance managers do is provide big lists of the best rest stops or places to stay on routes–it’ll take a little extra time on your end, but the gesture goes a long way!

Tip #3: Encourage Healthy Habits

Encouraging healthy habits can also help to combat big rig driver fatigue. Encourage your drivers to eat healthy, balanced meals and to stay hydrated throughout the day. Ensure they have access to healthy food options on the road and provide them with plenty of water to drink. Some companies will even do challenges or provide snacks to their drivers. It’s important to remember that though a driver is sitting in a big rig for long stretches, the toll on their body is huge! 

Tip #4: Provide Training on Fatigue Management

As a fleet manager, you can also train your drivers on fatigue management. Teach them how to recognize the signs of fatigue and take appropriate action to combat it. Provide them with resources and support to help them manage their fatigue on the road. Provide managers or others who will be speaking with drivers on how to ask the difficult questions. For a lot of drivers, pride may get in the way of admitting they need some rest. Here are some ways to break the ice:



• How are you feeling today? Are you feeling tired or fatigued?
• Have you been getting enough rest lately?
• How has your sleep been lately? Have you been getting enough quality sleep?
• Have you noticed any signs of fatigue while driving?
• Have you noticed any changes in your appetite or energy levels?

Remember, our big rig drivers are heroes. They spend long stretches on the road away from their families to ensure that people get the things they need. Checking in on them is the least you can do! 

Tip #5: Maintain Your Fleet

Proper maintenance of your big rigs is also essential for combating driver fatigue. Make sure that your vehicles are in good working condition and that they are serviced and maintained regularly. This will help to reduce the risk of mechanical failure and ensure that your drivers can focus on the road ahead.

Need Fleet Management? Circle M Truck Repair Has You Covered!

If you need help with fleet management or maintenance in Bakersfield, Circle M Truck Repair is here to help. Our team of experienced professionals can help you to keep your fleet in top condition and reduce the risk of driver fatigue.

We can help you focus on what matters by providing some of our expert fleet management and maintenance services. We give you a Peace of Mind guarantee here at Circle M Truck Repair by keeping track of when your vehicles need services and being vigilant about repair needs. Working trucks mean happy drivers–and happy drivers are more bought in to your needs!

Come Visit Us To Experience Circle M Difference!

Driver fatigue is a serious problem for big rig drivers, but there are things that you can do as a fleet manager to combat it. By scheduling regular breaks, providing adequate rest time, encouraging healthy habits, providing training on fatigue management, and maintaining your fleet, you can help to keep your drivers safe on the road. 

Schedule your appointment today, and don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions. We’re open Monday through Wednesday, 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM; Thursday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; & Friday, 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Our address is 4233 ½ Foster Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93308; you’ll find Circle M Truck Repair on Foster Ave. between Boylan St. & Standard St. We serve Bakersfield, Taft, Shafter, Wasco, Delano, Tejon Ranch, Lebec, Tehachapi, and the greater Kern County area, including the International Trade & Transportation Center.