Truck drivers face a few challenges on the road. Meeting these
challenges successfully and maintaining safety while driving requires that
drivers be aware of several factors that can minimize risks to themselves,
other drivers and truck damage. Here are some valuable tips:
1. Watch Your Blind Spots
Accident studies have shown that crashes are likely to occur when other
motorists are not aware of the truck driver's blind spots. Blind spots will
vary between rigs, but there are some common spots for all trucks. These
include directly behind the truck and just out of sight the side mirrors. Other
drivers may drive dangerously close because they do not think about these blind
spots or they do not recognize them. Although it is frustrating, it is up to
the truck driver to look out for the other drivers when changing lanes or
making any other maneuvers which could harm another driver.
2. Reduce Your Speed In Work Zones
Experts believe that about one-third of all fatal accidents in work zones
involve large trucks. You can do more to ensure your safety and the safety of
other drivers by taking your time going through construction areas. It may take
a little more time, but an accident will take even more time.
3. Truck Maintenance Cannot Be Overemphasized
Check
the truck thoroughly before beginning a road trip and every morning while on
the trip. Checking the fluid levels and mirror positions is important. You
should always be comfortable with your brakes because they must be able to stop
a lot of weight.
4. Ensure That The Cargo Is Loaded
Correctly
The truck will handle better if the
cargo isn't stacked. By stacking and spreading the cargo using the full space
of the truck, you can handle the truck better and get better fuel economy.
5. Reduce The Speed On Curves
While following the posted speed limit
is always a good idea, there are times when this speed is too fast for safety
reasons. Trucks tend to tip over when they take curves too fast, and the posted
speed limit is likely to be too fast. The design of trucks calls for taking
curves at a safe speed which is a slower speed.
6.
Bad Weather Requires Greater Caution
Experts report that inclement weather causes about 25 percent of all
speed-related truck driving accidents. The best rules to follow are reduce your
speed by one-third on wet roads and by one-half on snowy roads. Icy roads
require a lower speed yet. Many accidents involving trucks occur on icy roads.
Roads covered in a few inches of snow are not any better.
7. Take Care Of Yourself
You are a big part of truck driver safety. Getting enough sleep and eating
right are important as is exercise. Sleep is obviously important for keeping
you alert, but it is also good for your long-term health. Eating right means
avoiding high-fat meals which tend to make you sleepy. A balanced diet that has
protein and complex carbohydrates including vegetables will keep you feeling
great, and these will keep your energy level up. It is best to minimize sugar
intake. Take a break and exercise with simple stretches and a short walk.
Getting home time is important for a change in the routine and for a chance to
participate with supportive people.