Truck drivers are a part of the commerce of any country. Their work is integrally associated with the functioning of many businesses. Therefore ensuring their safety on the road is essential. To reduce the risk of truck accidents, here are some safety tips for commercial truck drivers.
11 Most Important Commercial Truck Drivers Safety Tips
It is very essential for truck drivers to learn numerous safe driving practices that can enhance their safety as well as the safety of other road users. Knowing these safety measures can help drivers get to their destinations safely and prevent truck accidents.
Maintain a Safe Speed
The first safety tip for commercial truck drivers is to ensure that you maintain a safe speed. Paying attention to speed limits and the average rate of speed of other drivers can make a big difference. You should also adjust your speed depending on the conditions you’re traveling in at the moment. When determining how fast to drive your truck, consider traffic flow, weather, and other factors.
Avoid Using Cell Phones While Driving
Using a cell phone while driving is a major distraction that can greatly increase the risk of an accident for truck drivers. Keep your phone out of sight while driving so that you can concentrate on what’s ahead of you. Avoid making calls and texts, and if you need to do, consider buying a hands-free set or a wireless set to help. This is an essential safety tip for truck drivers that can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer journey on the road.
Encourage Proper Rest and Breaks
It is a specific requirement that a truck driver takes a break every 8 hours for at least 30 minutes. Drivers cannot go for more than 14 hours without stopping for at least 10 hours. The 14-consecutive-hour driving window begins when you start any kind of work. Once you have reached the end of this 14-consecutive-hour period, you cannot drive again until you have been off duty for another 10 consecutive hours these rules ensure that drivers get adequate rest between shifts.
Wear Your Seatbelt
Seatbelts are most important when it comes to being safe in an accident. Drivers get fined if they are not wearing them. They can also have severe injuries and even death if they are in an accident and are not wearing seat belt. Wearing a seat belt is the easiest safety tip for commercial truck drivers to stay safe while driving.
Plan Your Travel
Knowing what to expect and what is on the road before can help you anticipate any changes to your route that you might end up having to take. As a professional driver, you should take the time to plan out your route before you set out so that you can be safe the entire trip.
Slow Down in Bad Weather
If there is snow, sleet, rain, ice, or any other bad weather condition that might affect you on the road, you should adjust your speed accordingly. Speed adjustment can make a big difference in how safe you are on the road and how much control you have over your truck. Following this commercial truck driver’s safety tip can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer journey on the road.
Reduce Speed on Curves
It can be hard to control curves and steep roadways in heavy vehicles like trucks. Reduce speed on curves to prevent loss of control. It will help you not topple or flip over on the curvey areas. It will also help ensure that your load stays level and does not shift around.
Drive Defensively
Defensive driving means being consistently aware of potential hazards and changes in driving or road conditions. It is the best safety tip for truck drivers to use defensive driving techniques while they drive. Give attention to other drivers, anticipate their moves, and work accordingly.
Regular Maintenance of Your Commercial Truck
Regular maintenance of your truck helps you make certain your truck is road-worthy. Make sure about the regular maintenance of your vehicle so that you can keep it running well and running safely.
Routine Safety Inspections
Always perform a routine safety inspection for issues, and if there is a problem, take care of it before you get on the road. Checking for safety issues on your truck can make a big difference in your commercial truck safety and how safe other drivers are on the road as well.
Safety Equipment
For the safety of truck drivers make sure you have safety equipment on your truck. Things like cones, jumper cables, safety vests, and more can all make a big difference in how safe you are when on the road.
Get Commercial Truck Insurance Quote
A reliable truck insurance agency can help you find a comprehensive insurance policy for your truck. With the help of insurance agents, you can choose the best insurance that protects you and your truck as well.
Make sure you follow these safety tips while you are driving. By adopting these truck drivers can keep themselves safe on the road. If you are looking for reliable commercial truck insurance in Houston, Texas, VL 17 Insurance Agency is there to help you. Contact us to get the best quote.
