How To Prevent Road Accidents As A Truck Driver: 7 Tips
Accident prevention is important for everybody driving a vehicle, let alone for truck drivers, who maneuver 80,000 lb trucks down the highway!
In this article, we are going to see 7 tips to avoid road accidents while driving a truck.
1. MOVE SLOWLY
It might sound obvious, but it's not: whatever you are doing, do it slowly and methodically. Speed is often a major contributing factor in many preventable accidents, also if you're driving a car.
2. BE METHODICAL
Make sure you’ve covered all your bases and there’s nothing you’re forgetting like checking your blind spots for example. Keep an eye on the entire vehicle as you’re just leaving the yard. This is a situation when some drivers take for granted where there are no obstacles. Watch constantly the entire vehicle, not just around the front. Doing things in the same order each time is an easy way not to forget to do something that’s critical. For example, when preparing to leave the yard, go through the pre-trip, paperwork prep, air line check etc in the exact same order as you always do.
3. PLANNING
Even when you’ve done your due diligence and planned for your trip to become familiar with the location of the customer on your map and/or GPS, looking for your delivery destination can still be very stressful.
The best tip for a new driver is to make trip planning a part of your daily routine.
4. GET A ROAD MAP
Yes, you read it right. An old-fashioned but good map can help you out figuring out where you are and where you are going. The GPS is good but it should not be the only source for directions, as they sometimes make mistakes and they can distract you in case you just rely on them.
5. CALL THE CUSTOMER FOR DIRECTIONS.
Before going in to deliver your load, call the receiver/customer and get detailed directions to the delivery location and compare what they’re telling you with your map and GPS. You then have 3 points of reference. This is the best way to minimize your chances of making mistakes.
6. WALK INTO YOUR DELIVERY AREA
When you do find your customer, park on the street, walk in and have a look at where you’ll be backing the trailer in. Study the layout of the area. Look for obstacles that might be in your way and may end up in your blind spots when you’re backing in. Look at the area to see if there’s a way to avoid blind siding when backing in. This tip can save you from unwanted surprises.
7. DON’T TRUST YOUR SPOTTER.
It’s not that you are trying to be a jerk. This task is your job.You are ultimately responsible for the positioning and maneuvering of your vehicle.The spotter does not have responsibility, only you have it.
Also, don't forget that a good night's sleep can help prevent accidents as you will be much more focused and energized. Even if sleeping in a truck isn't exactly like sleeping at home, the right mattress can change it all: check out Kogler's Truck Mattresses specifically designed for the truck drivers needs!