Always use common sense and refer to the detailed rules and instructions. These truck driving safety tips are meant to provide reminders to the drivers. Read on to find a complete guide on how to be safe when driving a truck.
Driver safety is an essential topic in the truck industry. By following specific safety rules, many injuries and accidents can be prevented.Â
As a truck driver, you need to be safe when driving, you can do simple things every day to keep yourself and others safe. We are glad to share the safety advice and precautions that you must take to make the highway safer.
You might want to check for accident lawyers as the 18-wheeler accident is the most common occurrence nowadays.
Things to remember
Driving a truck for a living is a dangerous and challenging job.
Professional driving requires exceptional skills, carries a lot of responsibility for others’ safety, and requires common sense.
Safety awareness is essential. Thanks to this, you will be alive when you face tense moments while sitting behind the steering wheel!
Find out how to be a better driver and how to be safe when Driving!
Safety Awareness Tips
Wear Your Seatbelt
Buckle up! Research shows that roughly one in six truck drivers do not wear a seat belt. Not only does the law require the seat belt to be worn, but it is also the best way to prevent injuries. Every year, more than 40% of accident deaths are caused due to seat belts not being fastened.
Avoid Cell Phone while Driving
When driving, not only is it irresponsible to use a hand-held phone, but it is also entirely illegal in most states. It can be distracting to speak, message, or look at your device’s screen and result in severe injuries and even deaths.
Be Aware of Speed Limits
Pay attention to speed limits. There are speed limits, especially for trucks. Do not exceed the speed limit, and you will be safe when driving.
Avoid Drugs and Alcohol
Although it may seem evident, drinking and driving is dangerous and should be strictly avoided. Medications include anything that can affect your judgment or physical strength, such as medications that can make you sleepy.
Plan Your Trip
Plan your trip. There may be various emergencies while you travel, but there must be a plan to tackle them. The better the trip is planned (driving time, route, weather search, etc.), the safer the trip will be.
Safety Pads
Pay attention to the truck space buffer. Always be careful about the stroller’s weight and height. Ensure that the truck has a safety pad to increase safety.
Slow Down for Turns
Be careful when taking turns or ramps. Slow down as needed to accommodate lane changes and other vehicles.
Maintain Adequate Stopping Distance
Always make sure to keep an adequate distance when parking. Make sure there is enough parking distance between all vehicles in front of you. It will prevent you from getting close interactions by keeping your head forward as well as decreasing interruptions.
Watch Out for the Weather
Be mindful of the weather. Some areas of the country are known for their unpredictable weather, but try to follow changes and avoid dangerous road conditions as much as possible.
Eat Healthy and Get Your Rest
A good diet and sufficient rest will increase your focus during your trip. Make sure you get enough sleep and stop if you feel tired. Take snacks, stretch your legs, or punch the cat. Squeezing unhealthy food, drinking sugary drinks, and eating large meals can make you sleepy, so look for healthy options whenever possible. The next time you go out, keep these safety tips in mind. For more information on truck driving safety, contact American Truck Driving School.
Be very careful at night
Always use extreme caution at night, especially under stressful working conditions. Stay alert, watch out, and drive slowly and carefully, especially at night.
Use GPS
GPSÂ specially designed for truck drivers will display important information, such as which exit to take, distance to exit when to change lanes, traffic announcements, etc.
They are worth the money. These devices, particularly when traveling to unknown places, can help relieve anxiety for the driver.
It is an excellent tool, but do not rely on it totally. Please compare your findings with several other sources, including a beautiful old map.
Know your Locations
Of all the driving safety tips, truck drivers most often ignore this one.
At the time of delivery, especially when delivering to new customers, please find a place where you can safely park it.
Check beforehand. Trucks are easily trapped and cannot turn around. Also, some parking lots are not designed for large platforms.
Get out of the truck and look around. You will see obstacles, such as low hydrants, poles, ditches, etc.
Take a picture of the neighborhood. If you just drive around, you would not see any danger.
It should also be borne in mind that many accidents involving trucks occur when reversing.Â
Fatal crashes are expensive for everybody and can severely impact your history of driving.
In Short
- Understand what exactly is going on around you.
- Always keep a good look in front of and around your truck.
- Plan an ‘exit strategy’ when going to drive on the motorway, particularly in heavy traffic.
- Get enough rest to keep yourself in the best possible condition.
- If the hauler correctly uses the electronic logbook system, it can provide the driver with a sound rest system.
Conclusion
Professional drivers must not neglect any safety steps while driving. If you skip these steps, you will put yourself and others traveling with you at risk.
Remember that no matter how urgent your job is, it is best to arrive safely at all times. There is nothing worth risking your life. Check here for more road safety tips!
