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Safe Driving Tips

Safe Driving Tips
At the start of each year, we in the trucking industry start to notice more and more hazards on the roadway when commuting from one location to the next. Whether it be in climate weather, construction work, poor vehicle maintenance, congested highways and byways, or reckless motorist there are always new elements coming into play to on our daily travels. These scenarios provide an excellent platform to review some quick safety tips we have found for commercial drivers to help navigate this sometimes complicated terrain.   1. Reduce speed in work zones Roughly one-third of all fatal work-zone accidents involve large trucks. Make sure to take your time going through road construction — your delivery can always wait. 2. Watch your blind spots Other motorists may not be aware of a truck's "no zones" — those where crashes are most likely to occur. Common "no zones" include:
  • · Directly in front of tractor
  • · Directly behind trailer
  • · Right side steering tire
  • · Left side driver’s door
If others aren't aware of these trouble spots, they may drive dangerously close. As frustrating as this can be, it's up to you to exercise caution before turning or changing lanes and to maintain a safe distance. 3. Reduce speed on curves Usually, following the speed limit is a good thing. When it comes to trucking, however, there are times when even adhering to posted signs is still too fast. Particularly on exit/entrance ramps, the speed limits are meant more for cars; trucks have a tendency to tip over if they take the curves too fast. When going through any curve, it's best to set your speed far lower than the posted limit to make up for your rig's unique dimensions. 4. Adjust for bad weather Inclement weather causes roughly 25 percent of all speeding-related truck driving accidents. Cut your speed down by one-third on wet roads, and by one-half on snowy or icy ones. Also allow more time for maneuvers in poor weather. Let your blinker run for a good 5 blinks before your change lanes, and signal for turns before slowing down. Calculating following distances: good weather conditions a minimum of 4 seconds under 40 mph, over 40 mph 1 second for every 10 ft of vehicle length = 7 to 8 seconds. In poor weather conditions following distance should be doubled. And if you see other truckers pulling over, maybe it's best you do likewise. 5. Maintain your truck Give your vehicle a thorough inspection as required by federal regulations and company policy. Always make sure your giving your maintaining your rigs upkeep with regular service checkups. The brakes are particularly vital, given how much weight is riding on them. If you spot anything unusual, report it to dispatch before attempting to drive. 6. Take care of yourself A big part of truck driver safety has less to do with your vehicle, and more to do with you. Getting enough sleep, eating right, exercising, and taking quality home time will all help you feel more content and refreshed behind the wheel — 2 qualities prized in any driver. Hopefully you will find these helpful going through the remainder of the winter months and the following year. All these things combined with your good judgement and experience can help to make your daily runs a smoother less stressful experience!   Safe Travels Everyone!
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