Trucking Safety Tips to Know While on the Road
Learning how to drive comes with significant responsibilities, especially considering that our own and other people’s lives are on the line whenever we get behind the wheel. There are different categories for drivers based on their driving skills and the ability to drive different types of vehicles. We can say that truck drivers have better skills than those who do not know how to drive bigger vehicles.
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In the truck driving industry, driver safety is always an important topic to prevent accidents and injuries. By attending training sessions, a truck driver will learn all the principles of trucking safely to ensure everyone’s safety and also the safety of their cargo. Here are some trucking safety tips to know while on the road.
Put On Your Seatbelt Before Driving
Seatbelts are your number one protection from accidents on the road. But sadly, one in every six truck drivers who do not wear their seatbelts, which is one of the leading causes of crash-related fatalities every year. Most countries in the world have already made not wearing seatbelts punishable by law. The act encourages drivers to wear a seatbelt at all times.
Do Not Use Your Mobile Phone While Driving
It is now illegal in most places to use a mobile phone while driving. Texting, making calls, or even just looking at your phone can distract you from the road, which can cause a fatal accident. This is a careless and irresponsible act on the part of the driver, something that everyone should avoid when on the road.
Know the Speed Limits
You should follow the minimum and maximum speed limits for a truck. The speed limits are there to guide all motorists to prevent any accidents, especially on big highways. You are driving a big vehicle, which means you also have a big responsibility to protect yourself and the other drivers on the road.
Don’t Drink Alcohol or Take Any Illegal Substances
Drinking and driving are hazardous, and it is against the law. You will surely have a problem with the authorities if you get caught driving under the influence of alcohol or other illegal substances. It impairs your judgment and motor skills, as you will also feel dizzy.
Specify Your Stops and Destinations
Planning your whole trip with stops and destinations will make you feel safer on the road. You should set your routes based on weather forecasts and driving hours to know precisely your time of arrival. Your planned routes should also note locations of auto shops with mechanics in case of unexpected events that can happen to your truck.
Be Aware of Your Truck’s Dimensions
Before setting out on a trip, make sure that you know your truck’s dimensions and be aware of the limitations due to its size. You may need to practice a few turns first to understand better and feel how you should drive your truck and avoid any accidents.
Don’t Go Too Fast
You should take extra care in making turns, especially on sharp curves or at an off-ramp. Watch your speed, and you must consider the weight of your vehicle and try not to let it slide during your turns. Remember to stay on your lane always — this is one of the trucking safety rules that you should keep in mind.
Observe Proper Distancing
When driving a truck, always consider proper distancing and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make sure that you have ample stopping distance and try not to hit the vehicle in front of you.
Stay Healthy and Awake
Before heading out on a trip, make sure that you have enough energy to drive your truck. Get some healthy meals and enough rest to make sure that you will stay alert at all times. Bring with you some light snacks and beverages in case you get hungry on the road. It is also important not to fight your sleepiness. You should pull over to a safe location and take a catnap. When you wake up, do some stretches to wake up your whole body to prepare you for the next driving period.
You are now ready to take on a journey with your truck. Keep in mind the tips above to keep yourself and other drivers safe on the road.
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