The trucking business is vital to the American economy as its responsible for transporting over 72% of all goods. If you drive a truck for a living, you know it’s a complex and dangerous job. Professional driving calls for a great deal of skill as it often comes with the responsibility of looking after the safety of other road users in addition to your own and that of the truck and its cargo. Here are safety tips to make part of your lifestyle as a truck driver.
1. Adhere to Hours of Service Rules
FMCSA regulations state that you must take a 30-minute break after eight total driving hours and ensure you’re off the clock for at least ten hours daily. Failing to adhere to these rules leads to fatigue, which raises your risk of getting into an accident. These are the bare minimums. The more pauses you take, the safer you’ll be.
2. Reduce Lane Changes
Changing lanes may seem trivial, but it’s one of the most dangerous maneuvers for truck drivers, especially if a car is in your blind spot. Only change lanes when necessary, and make sure you indicate well in advance before you do. Doing this ensures other drivers have plenty of time to give way. 15.5 million trucks, of which 2 million are tractor-trailers, are in operation in the United States. You always have to consider other truckers when changing lanes.
3. Maintain Safe Speeds
You may be tempted to speed because you have a deadline to meet or a schedule to keep. But if the cops stop you for speeding, you’ll lose much more time. Always drive within the posted truck speed limits. Note that your truck will automatically accelerate when traveling downhill, so you must slow down even more.
4. Take Extra Caution While Making Wide Turns
For a truck, almost all turns are wide. Before turning, indicate early, slow down, and check all blind spots multiple times. Even after taking these safety measures, you may still be in danger when making turns, so be prepared to stop if required.
5. Always Fasten Your Seatbelt
Failing to wear a seat belt is a major reason fatal collisions are rising. Always put on your seatbelt when on the road. In the case of a collision, your seat belt can save your life, minimize injuries, and give you more control over your truck as you won’t move around.
6. Avoid All Distractions on the Road
Accidents involving distracted driving are common among truckers. When driving, refrain from using your phone or other electronics. If you must make a phone call or send a text, pull over to a secure area. Take pauses to eat or drink because doing so while driving can also be distracting.
7. Maintain a Safe Distance
Driving a truck involves navigating several blind spots, particularly those on the sides and back of the vehicle. Always keep a safe distance from other cars and avoid tailgating. For every ten-mile-per-hour increase in speed, maintain a distance of at least one vehicle length. Doing this will give you adequate time to respond to unexpected stops or traffic changes.
8. Take Note of the Weather
Weather conditions can be unpredictable, which makes driving more challenging for truckers. Rain, snow, and ice can affect visibility and make the road slippery. Always check the weather forecast before your trips so you can plan accordingly. Slow down and increase your following distance when you have to drive in bad weather conditions.
9. Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
Accidents are an eventuality rather than a possibility in the trucking industry. The driver and the driver’s employer are the two potential defendants in an 18-wheeler accident. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you determine the at-fault party and hold them accountable. They’ll help negotiate with insurance providers and pursue compensation for damages or injuries resulting from the accident.
A career in trucking can be rewarding, but it also comes with its fair share of dangers. Use these tips to stay safe on the road.
Alina David
