While it may seem obvious, some of the most essential truck driving tips involve safety. Not doing so may lead to serious consequences, such as getting stuck in traffic or missing an appointment. However, truck drivers must remember that safety pays off in the long run, as their experience and focus will pay off. Here are some safety tips to help you out. Following them will improve your driving experience and make your job much easier. Below are some truck driving tips to help you get started.
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Avoiding lane changes during heavy traffic
When changing lanes, it is important to stay in your lane as much as possible. Be sure to check your rear view mirror and side mirrors for any cars that may be attempting to merge. If you have any questions about whether or not it is safe to make a change, you should use your turn signal and your SatNav or GPS device to show where to turn. Also, avoid making lane changes in intersections, roundabouts, or junctions.
Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles
Trucking is dangerous, as any truck accident lawyer would tell you, and following distances is crucial for safety. Heavy loads and trailers can block your view. Additionally, large vehicles should stop at railroad crossings and buses should increase their following distance. Truck drivers should double their following distance on bad weather. In addition to following distance, truck drivers should turn on their headlights to make themselves more visible. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can reduce your risk of an accident.
Adjusting your traveling speed for the conditions
While trucking, it’s important to remember that truck drivers are responsible for the safety of others on the road. The speed limit is the minimum allowed by law, so it is vital for truckers to keep this in mind. While most truckers try to go above the speed limit to avoid accidents, it is important to reduce your speed when conditions make it unsafe to drive at that rate. When driving a commercial vehicle, it’s best to reduce your speed by one third or even more on wet or snowy roads. Remember that higher speeds can lead to larger crashes, and if the road is slippery, you should slow down even further.
Pre-trip inspection
Performing a pre-trip inspection for truck driving is vital to the safety of your vehicle and your passengers. In addition to ensuring that the vehicle is running smoothly and safely, pre-trip inspections can also help keep a track of any problems that may come up during the trip. These problems may require repairs or even replacement, so the sooner you spot these issues, the better. The inspection also helps you avoid any possible liability issues that may arise while driving a truck.
Avoiding staring at the headlights of oncoming traffic
Truckers must avoid staring at the headlights of ongoing traffic when driving at night. Drivers must keep their eyes shifted away from the oncoming headlights and look to the right side of the road. They should focus on lane markers and the edge of the road, as opposed to the headlights of the oncoming traffic. Truckers must also make sure their windshields are not too dirty, as this can cause hot spots and visual distortions.
Maintaining good health while driving
Whether you’re a new or seasoned trucker, maintaining good health while driving a truck is essential to your livelihood and safety. Truck driving is an extended road trip, with constant exposure to harsh weather, caffeine overdoses, and insufficient rest. Maintaining good health while driving a truck means making sure to pay attention to what you eat and drink, as well as to your emotional health.
