As a trucker, you should know that when you are behind the wheel of a truck, you are not only driving a vehicle but also handling responsibility on a large scale. It would not be wrong to state that every mile you cover affects your safety and the safety of many other people sharing the road. Whether you are just beginning your trucking career or are a seasoned truck driver, it is important for you to understand the importance of practicing road safety, as it can make a big difference between a smooth drive and a risky one.
Read on to learn more.
Always Get Rested Before A Long Haul
As a truck driver, you already know that long hours on the road can cause fatigue and blur your focus. You might have already experienced zoning out while driving, which can be incredibly dangerous. With that said, staying alert is not limited to getting enough sleep. You should know when to rest, take breaks, and eat properly before exhaustion sets in.
You should not forget that your body has limits, which is why a delivery deadline might not be worth compromising your health and safety.
Secure Oversize Permits & Follow Regulations
If you haul heavy loads, it is important for you to secure oversize permits. Why, you might ask? The truth is that many accidents and heavy fines occur because drivers skip this important step. With oversized permits, you can ensure that your route complies with regulatory standards, local laws, bridge capacities, and weight restrictions. With oversized permits, you can avoid getting into structural risks and dangerous routes.
But that set, oversized permits select response ability and professionalism. You showcase that you are actually committed to operating your vehicle safely while respecting the terrain and infrastructure that you are traveling on.
Inspect Your Truck Every Day
You should know that most accidents and vehicle breakdowns can be prevented with a routine inspection before every trip.
Yes, you read it right!
Before taking your truck on the road, make sure to check the brakes, tires, lights, and mirrors. We also recommend taking a quick look under the hood while analyzing things for potential leaks or loose components.
A simple pre-trip inspection can help save many hours of downtime. Of course, your truck is your ultimate partner on the road, which is why you must pay attention to it so it keeps performing at its best.
Always Maintain A Safe Distance
Always prepare your truck for the weather conditions, especially when you are about to drive through a hazardous zone. Speaking of the weather, if it is snowing, raining, or foggy, it is more important than ever before to maintain a safe distance between your truck and other vehicles. By doing so, you can give yourself enough reaction time to efficiently handle the unexpected.
You should certainly avoid rushing in poor weather conditions, as it is in your best interest to slow down your truck and avoid sudden brakes or maneuvers. You must remember that the goal is to drive and arrive safely instead of quickly.
