Miranda Blake
Noticias • 3 min leer

Prácticas de conducción seguras: Directrices esenciales para camioneros de larga distancia

Creado: 15/01/2025

Actualizado: 15/01/2025

Como conductor de camión, es fundamental estar siempre seguro al volante. Pero, con las condiciones meteorológicas extremas y las largas rutas por Europa, ¿cómo puede garantizar un impacto positivo?

En este artículo esbozamos las pautas esenciales para que pueda dar prioridad a su seguridad y a la de los demás.

Planificación y preparación

En primer lugar, debe asegurarse de tenerlo todo preparado antes de ponerse en marcha.

Disposición del viaje

Traza cuidadosamente tu ruta con antelación, teniendo en cuenta factores como las condiciones meteorológicas, la construcción de la carretera y los peligros potenciales. Es una buena idea utilizar tecnologías como el GPS y las aplicaciones meteorológicas para mantenerse informado sobre el viaje. También debes planificar paradas para descansar, repostar y comer. De este modo, te asegurarás de mantener un horario coherente sin comprometer la seguridad.

Inspecciones de vehículos

Antes de salir a la carretera, realice una inspección exhaustiva de su camión antes del viaje. Compruebe lo siguiente:

● Inflado y desgaste adecuados de los neumáticos

● Frenos para un rendimiento óptimo

● Luces y señales de funcionalidad

● Niveles de líquidos (aceite, refrigerante, líquido de frenos, etc.)

● Espejos para un ajuste correcto

● Sujeción de la carga

Si evalúa periódicamente estos aspectos, podrá detectar posibles problemas antes de que se conviertan en problemas graves.

Prácticas de conducción segura en carretera

Ponerlas en práctica es igual de crucial una vez que has arrancado el motor.

Gestión de la fatiga

Este es un factor de riesgo importante para los camioneros de larga distancia como usted. Para combatirlo, le recomendamos:

● Cumplimiento de las normas sobre horas de los conductores

● Tomar descansos regulares - incluso si no se siente cansado.

● Reconocer los signos de fatiga y pararse a descansar cuando sea necesario.

● Mantener un horario de sueño constante cuando sea posible.

Defensive driving

También conviene adoptar una mentalidad de conducción defensiva para anticiparse a los posibles peligros y evitarlos. Algunas ideas son:

● Garantizar una distancia de seguimiento segura

● Ser consciente de los puntos ciegos

● Evitar los cambios frecuentes de carril y señalizar con suficiente antelación.

● Ajustar la velocidad en función de las condiciones de la carretera y del tiempo.

● Estar preparado para las acciones de otros conductores

Speed management

Con el punto sobre mantener una velocidad segura y constante, deberías:

● Respete siempre las restricciones, especialmente en zonas con límites de velocidad reducidos para camiones.

● Reduzca la velocidad en las curvas, en las zonas de obras y en condiciones meteorológicas adversas.

● Utilice los frenos auxiliares en las bajadas pronunciadas para evitar el sobrecalentamiento.

Mantenimiento y seguridad de los vehículos

Otra cuestión importante para la seguridad del transporte de larga distancia por carretera es el mantenimiento y la protección del camión.

Mantenimiento regular

Deberá seguir un calendario estricto para mantener su vehículo en óptimas condiciones. Por ejemplo, a través de:

● Realizar cambios frecuentes de aceite y revisiones de líquidos.

● Inspección y mantenimiento del sistema de frenos

● Control de la presión y el estado de los neumáticos

● Mantener el sistema eléctrico en buen estado de funcionamiento.

● Abordar cualquier problema con prontitud para evitar averías en la carretera.

Cargo security

Del mismo modo, será clave garantizar la seguridad de tu carga. Para ello:

● Utilizar amarres y dispositivos de sujeción adecuados.

● Distribuir la carga uniformemente

● Volver a comprobar la sujeción de la carga durante las paradas, especialmente tras frenazos bruscos o giros bruscos.

Truck security

Con proteger su vehículo encima de su carga, se le recomienda:

● Aparca en zonas bien iluminadas y de alta seguridad cuando pares a descansar.

● Emplear dispositivos antirrobo y mecanismos de cierre.

● Mantente alerta e informa de cualquier actividad sospechosa.

Conocimiento del tiempo y del estado de las carreteras

Como camionero de larga distancia, también tendrás que prepararte para diversas condiciones relacionadas con el clima y las carreteras. Por ejemplo:

● Mantenerse informado sobre las previsiones a lo largo de su ruta

● Ajustar la conducción o retrasar el viaje en los elementos más extremos.

● Llevar el equipo necesario (cadenas, kit de emergencia, etc.) para distintas condiciones meteorológicas.

● Proceder con mayor precaución en zonas desconocidas o propensas a peligros específicos.

Salud y bienestar

Mantener una buena salud es igual de importante para conducir con seguridad. Por tanto, asegúrese de que:

● Hazte revisiones médicas periódicas y obtén los certificados médicos necesarios.

Sigue una dieta equilibrada y mantente hidratado.

Hacer ejercicio siempre que sea posible, aunque sólo sea estirarse durante los descansos.

● Gestionar el estrés mediante técnicas de relajación o pasatiempos durante el tiempo de inactividad.

Conducción segura con SNAP

Otra forma de aumentar la seguridad es a través de nuestra aplicación intruck app. Con ella, los camioneros como usted pueden pagar diversos servicios, como aparcamiento, lavado, combustible y otros. Al eliminar las transacciones en efectivo, se limita cualquier distracción.

Además, muchos aparcamientos cuentan con medidas de seguridad mejoradas, por lo que tendrá la seguridad de que su vehículo está a salvo mientras se toma los descansos necesarios. Y como nuestra aplicación permite a los usuarios reservar plazas de aparcamiento con antelación, tendrás la tranquilidad de que habrá un lugar seguro para descansar después de largas horas en la carretera.

Recuerde: las prácticas de conducción segura no son sólo directrices; son principios esenciales que todo camionero de larga distancia debe adoptar como parte de su ética profesional. Si da prioridad a la seguridad mediante una planificación cuidadosa, una conducción atenta, un mantenimiento adecuado y el uso de tecnología como intruck, podrá reducir significativamente los riesgos asociados a su exigente profesión.

Si desea más información, póngase en contacto con nuestro equipo en el teléfono +44 (0)1603 777242.

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miércoles 18 junio 2025 • Noticias

REAPERTURA DE LA FRONTERA ENTRE POLONIA Y UCRANIA: LO QUE LOS OPERADORES DE FLOTAS DEBEN SABER

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After months of disruption, freight traffic between Poland and Ukraine is moving freely again. But with tensions still simmering and the threat of renewed blockades on everyone’s minds, fleet operators must remain alert to the risks – and prepared to protect driver welfare on both sides of the border.This article explains what caused the disruption, how it affected drivers, and the steps you can take to reduce the impact if industrial action returns.The situation began in late 2023 when Polish truck drivers began protesting at major border crossings. They claimed that the EU’s decision to waive permit requirements for Ukrainian hauliers – introduced as a temporary wartime measure – led to an influx of lower-cost operators undercutting Polish firms.The protests escalated, blocking key freight routes into Ukraine and trapping thousands of vehicles in queues stretching for miles. At its peak, the blockade left at the border, some waiting more than a week to cross. Non-Ukrainian EU drivers, too, suffered long delays, strained schedules and poor conditions. What began as a logistical dispute evolved into a broader protest by Polish truckers over Ukrainian imports, market access, and the impact of emergency EU transport measures. Polish farmers soon joined in, frustrated by the effect of Ukrainian agricultural products on domestic prices.Polish drivers also for border crossings – known as eCherha – arguing that it put EU hauliers at a disadvantage. While the system was designed to streamline freight movement by allowing carriers to pre-book crossing slots, Polish operators claimed it gave Ukrainian firms greater flexibility and faster access. Issues such as language barriers, limited integration with EU logistics systems and inconsistent implementation left many EU drivers waiting longer at the border, further fuelling the perception of unfair treatment and contributing to the broader unrest. Protests begin at Dorohusk, Hrebenne and Korczowa crossings. More crossings are blocked, including Medyka; three Ukrainian drivers die waiting in queues. The Polish government comes to an agreement to pause the blockade until March. Sporadic blockades resume at smaller crossings. A new four-month blockade began at Yahodyn-Dorohusk but was overturned in court. All major border crossings remain open, but the risk of future disruption remains.In response to the disruption and its wider implications, the Polish government has taken a proactive stance. Border crossings with Ukraine have been designated as critical infrastructure, giving them greater protection from future blockades and helping to ensure the continued flow of freight, humanitarian aid and military support. A new Council for Cooperation with Ukraine has also been established to generally strengthen ties between the two countries. Part of its remit is to improve coordination across trade and transportation. In parallel, Poland is investing in eastern border infrastructure and engaging with EU officials to press for fairer terms for Polish hauliers. While these actions may not resolve the situation overnight, they signal a longer-term commitment to stability and structured dialogue.The blockade created unacceptable conditions for professional drivers. Many spent days or weeks in their cabs with no access to toilets, food or running water. Some were stuck in freezing temperatures with no heating or shelter. during the blockade period, with exhaustion and untreated medical conditions believed to be contributing factors. The disruption also caused significant mental and emotional strain, particularly for Ukrainian drivers trying to reach or return from home during wartime. Delays affected not only trade but also the movement of fuel, aid and military goods critical to Ukraine’s national defence.While Polish protesters insisted that humanitarian and military aid vehicles were permitted through the border, indicate that this wasn’t always the case.These conditions weren’t just traumatic for drivers – they also exposed gaps in fleet risk management and emergency planning. Operators must now treat border disruption as an ongoing threat.Although the situation has stabilised, underlying tensions between Polish hauliers, Ukrainian operators and EU policy remain unresolved. Fleet managers operating in or near the region should be alert to the possibility of further industrial action – especially during seasonal pressure points or EU policy reviews.Here are the SNAP team’s recommendations for managing the situation effectively:Stay up-to-date with news from Polish and Ukrainian logistics associations and government sources. Subscribe to border traffic alerts and follow trusted logistics partners for real-time updates.Have contingency plans that redirect vehicles through Hungary, Slovakia or Romania if crossings between Poland and Ukraine become blocked again.Ensure your trucks are stocked with essentials: food, water, power banks and medical kits. During periods of unrest, access to secure truck parking in Poland is essential, so that your drivers are safe, rested and off the roadside. Equip drivers with up-to-date information on secure truck parking and rest areas along their route.Our has an interactive map of truck parking, with 11,000 HGV service providers across Europe, including Poland, Hungary and Slovakia. It’s an easy-to-use tool for finding secure truck rest areas in Poland, making it especially valuable during periods of industrial action. Although the app does not currently offer bookable truck parking in Ukraine, Ukrainian operators and drivers can use intruck to locate reliable rest stops within the EU during long-distance journeys or times of disruption.With increased demand during periods of disruption, advanced booking is critical. Drivers can also use intruck to find and book trusted truck parking in Poland in advance. Whether your vehicles are travelling deep into Eastern Europe or returning westward, it allows your drivers to access parking for trucks near Warsaw and other high-traffic areas.Establish check-in schedules, especially if long waits or diversions are expected. Reassure drivers that their wellbeing is a priority and provide support if they face unexpected delays. If possible, suggest secure lorry parking locations in Ukraine in advance, so they know where to take a break.The reopening of the Poland-Ukraine border is welcome news for fleets operating in Eastern Europe. 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miércoles 04 junio 2025 • Noticias

EL IMPACTO DEL APAGÓN DE LA PENÍNSULA IBÉRICA DE 2025 EN EL TRANSPORTE POR CARRETERA

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On 28 April 2025, a widespread power outage swept across the Iberian Peninsula, leaving millions of homes, businesses and public services in Spain and Portugal without electricity. The Spain-Portugal blackout, which began at 12:33pm local time, affected major cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon and Porto, as well as large parts of the surrounding regions. In some areas, power returned within four to six hours; in others, the disruption lasted well into the following morning.Although the precise cause is still under investigation, early reports suggest a failure in the cross-border transmission network disrupted electricity flow across both national grids. The impact was swift and widespread, halting train services, grounding aircraft, affecting hospitals and public services and paralysing digital infrastructure. For the transport and logistics sector, the challenge was immediate, touching every aspect of road-based operations, from freight and fuel supply to traffic control and driver welfare.“When power fails, so do many of the systems we rely on to keep roads safe – from traffic lights and signage to communications,” says Raquel Martinez, European Sales Manager at SNAP. “For both drivers and fleet operators, the 2025 blackout highlighted just how quickly routine journeys can become high-risk and how important it is to be aware of where drivers can stop to maintain the security of themselves and their loads.”For transport firms, the first and most pressing issue was the suspension of freight movement. Across the Iberian Peninsula, operations at warehouses, fulfilment centres and cross-docking hubs slowed or stopped entirely. International movements were also affected, with trucks held at borders as authorities worked to restore basic traffic control and ensure road safety.With rail freight at a standstill, some operators attempted to shift loads onto the road network, but this brought its own limitations. Congested routes, inoperative traffic systems and patchy fuel access meant that road transport couldn’t absorb the demand. It took several days to clear the backlog and restore supply chain reliability.The Iberian power cuts also revealed the extent to which modern infrastructure depends on digital systems. Traffic lights in major cities went dark, causing congestion and increasing the risk of accidents. Electronic signage, motorway sensors and smart routing systems all failed, depriving drivers of real-time guidance and updates.Toll booths were similarly affected. With automatic barriers and electronic payment systems out of action, staff in some areas had to lift gates manually or collect cash. This led to delays on major routes, lost revenue for toll operators, and concerns about system integrity once power was restored.One of the clearest signs of the sector’s reliance on electricity came at the fuel pumps. As power failed, petrol stations across Spain and Portugal were forced to close. Pumps and payment systems stopped working, leaving only a small number of forecourts with emergency generators able to serve customers. These were quickly overwhelmed, leading to long queues and, in many cases, drivers stranded without fuel.The disruption also extended upstream, with port facilities and fuel distribution networks unable to operate at normal capacity, delaying the movement of fuel to inland areas and further compounding supply issues.For operators of electric vehicles, the outage posed a particular challenge. EV charging across Spain and Portugal were out of service, rendering EVs unusable unless they already had enough charge to complete their route. 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viernes 16 mayo 2025 • Noticias

CAMIONES AUTÓNOMOS: DESENTRAÑANDO EL CAMINO A SEGUIR

Susie Jones

Autonomous trucks a daunting idea for some, but seemingly, the future of the logistics industry. As technology advances within the sector, the prospect of having partially or fully autonomous vehicles delivering your goods is high. In fact, it could be as close as 2026, according to the UK government, as in May 2024, the Automated Vehicles (AV) Act became law.However, what happens when an autonomous truck gets into an accident? Who is liable? In this blog, we'll delve into the world of autonomy, how it could impact the mobility sector, who is liable when accidents occur, and what drivers think of the change.There are six levels of driving automation:• Level 0 No automation. The human performs all driving tasks.• Level 1 Driver assistance. The vehicle features a single automated system. • Level 2 Partial automation. The vehicle can perform steering and acceleration. However, a human still monitors all tasks and can take control at all times.• Level 3 Conditional automation. The vehicle can perform most driving tasks. However, human override is still required.• Level 4 High automation. Geofencing is required, and the vehicle can perform all driving tasks under specific circumstances. Human override is an option. • Level 5 Full automation. The vehicle performs all driving tasks in all conditions. No human attention or interaction is required. Sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence enable autonomous trucks to drive independently. Advanced programs make decisions instead of human drivers. • Legalities Who is liable when accidents occur? Is it the driver, their employer, or the maintenance company? We delve into this below. • Infrastructure Our existing roads are built for a world of petrol engines. Therefore, infrastructure must be upgraded or replaced to support self-driving vehicle fleets, requiring money and a substantial amount of political will. • Societal shifts An evolution in public attitudes will need to occur, too. The prospect of AI vehicles is daunting to many, with concerns regarding safety, journey tracking, and the legal grey areas regarding road accidents. • Security A system relying on digital networks becomes more vulnerable to cyber threats. The safety of autonomous trucks has been a hot topic of discussion within the sector, with many debating whether the technology is at a reliable standard to deal with unpredictable weather and recognise obstacles something that is of concern for truck drivers on SNAP's social media pages:"In the slightest bit of rain, my truck loses all automatic capabilities, AEBS, and cruise control. There is no way trucks will be allowed to drive themselves without a driver anytime soon."“This will kill more people on the roads and cause more queues. Just think how reliable your electronics are on your Euro 6 vehicle. The same people are making autonomous trucks.”In the event of an accident, responsibility may shift between the driver and the manufacturer. The court must determine whether an accident was caused by a technical fault, inadequate maintenance, or driver error. A manufacturer will become liable in the following instances: • Sensor malfunction• Software glitches• Inadequate cybersecurity measures• Inadequate testingA driver of an autonomous truck may be liable for an accident if they neglect the necessary service or maintenance required for the vehicle to operate properly one could argue that this liability could fall on fleet managers, too. Despite this, there is still some confusion among those in the mobility sector. We asked truck drivers on our who they believe would be held liable in the event of an accident with an autonomous vehicle. 51% of drivers thought the driver would be responsible, 37% suggested automated truck manufacturers, and 12% believed software developers. It's evident that more clarification is needed among those in the sector before autonomous trucks are a permanent fixture on our roads. In their revisited campaign, SNAP looks at the future of the mobility sector. As technology advances, autonomous vehicles will play a significant role in the industry, with a 50% chance that machines could take over all human jobs in the next 120 years.However, how will they deal with some of Europe's most hazardous highways? Truck driving is more than just sitting behind the wheel it's often about navigating ever-changing and unpredictable road conditions. It poses the question of whether autonomous trucks could deal with some of the poorest roads in Europe. From their most recent campaign, , SNAP identified Europe's most dangerous roads, with results showing Bulgaria, Lithuania, and Czechia as the most concerning.One could argue that autonomous trucks will face challenges while trying to navigate some of these roads without human interaction. Limited GPS accuracy, sensor interference, and a lack of consistent infrastructure could complicate things.