Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

As one year ends, another begins. For many, it’s a reassuring reminder that there’s a bigger picture than the everyday hustle. People often take this time to reflect. After all, in the rush of getting through another busy day, it’s easy to overlook the things that they know and let what was supposed to be an occasional shortcut harden into an unhealthy habit. Of course, safety is never far from the minds of the professional drivers who spend much of their day on the road. Still, a fresh year is the perfect time to refresh memories by reviewing safety tips for truck drivers.

Wear a Seatbelt

You’re a conscientious driver. Your vehicle is sturdier than most. However, you’re still vulnerable to bad weather, wildlife, mistakes made by other drivers, and sheer bad luck. Any of those forces can lead to a crash, and if you’re not wearing a seatbelt, your risk skyrockets. You run the risk of being ejected from your vehicle, and that’s almost always deadly, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The reminder to wear your seatbelt often gets left off the list of safety tips for truck drivers. However, it can save your life. It can also increase the odds that you’ll be able to stay in your vehicle and maintain control if things do go wrong. That can protect you and everyone around you.

Maintain a Safe Speed

Many Americans romanticize speeding. Professional drivers know better. As the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration points out, piloting a big truck means accepting that you face greater challenges with maneuverability, braking, and acceleration. Too much speed adds unnecessary risk. Experienced truck drivers don’t exceed the speed limit. They’re also mindful of situations where the posted limit might drop. Work zones are a common example. However, pros also recognize that they may need to adjust their speed to match road conditions. Poor weather would be one such situation.

Stay Focused When Driving

Being a good driver requires taking care of yourself. Make sure that you’re not too tired or too sick to drive. Eat healthy foods so that you have the energy needed to stay alert and make good decisions. Also, avoid distractions while behind the wheel. It’s helpful to have things like music or audiobooks that keep you company during the ride. However, you’ll want to ensure that nothing in the cab interferes with your ability to concentrate on what’s happening on the road.

Be Mindful of Blind Spots

With an oversized vehicle, blind spots are inevitable, so knowing where they are and staying alert is vital. Checking your mirrors every 10 seconds or so allows you to watch for vehicles that might be slipping into these zones. In fact, experts discussing safety tips for truck drivers often recommend balancing your time between scanning in front of your vehicle, checking your mirrors, and viewing your gauges. Making a point of keeping an eye on all these areas regularly will help you drive safely.

Maintain Your Distance

It can take up to two football fields to stop a big truck. These vehicles also need room to turn. When navigating the road, do your best to maintain space around your vehicle. Be careful to leave room to stop, and slow down when turning. Always use your signals when changing lanes, and brake early. This alerts other drivers to your intentions.

Avoid Driving Under the Influence

The message about driving after consuming alcohol or illegal drugs is widespread, so most drivers are aware of it. However, those aren’t the only substances that can impact a person’s ability to drive safely. Prescription and over-the-counter medications, either alone or in combination, can make you dizzy, tired, or ill. If you’re taking a new medicine, pay attention. If a problem occurs, talk to your doctor. They may be able to suggest a safer alternative.

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