Every truck driver fears getting into an or causing an incident on the road. While it’s impossible to prevent accidents entirely, it’s understandable that truckers have growing fears. More than half a million truck accidents happen each year on American roads. Truck drivers need extra caution when traveling because of the sheer weight and size the vehicles they operate.
With the right driving tips most accidents can be avoided. Most trucking accidents are due to driver negligence and mechanical failure. These five tips can help you to be a safer truck driver, and help avoid accidents this year.
Avoid Speed
Speeding is the number one cause of all road accidents, truck accidents included. Speeding is the most common cause of truck accidents. This is because a truck this size would be unable to stop in the event that something unexpectedly happened.
If you follow the speed limit you can both ensure your safety as well as the safety of others on the roads. No matter how far ahead of schedule you may be, there’s no good reason to speed. It’s easier to avoid an accident if you maintain the speed limit.
Do your safety checks
The safety inspections and prechecks are important for your safety on the road. Most checks go smoothly. However, it’s possible to find something that isn’t right.
Safety checks can be used to assess and inspect your truck’s condition before you go on the road. Keep a detailed record of these inspections, much like you do with the driving record.
Obey the Law
The rules and laws that govern the roads exist for a purpose. These laws and rules are not meant to be used as suggestions or polite requests. If you are ever in trouble with traffic tickets you should consult traffic ticket defense attorneys .
There are also rules and regulations about how many hours you can travel.
Never Underestimate Your Fatigue
Long-haul truck drivers tend to get used a certain amount of monotony when driving on the roads. It is obvious why trucker fatigue can be a problem among the driving community. Make sure to pay attention to the time you spend on the road and that you take breaks as much as you can.
Even getting out from your truck for a walk or to get some fresh air can have a positive impact on your mind and ability to focus.
Stay Focused
Do not let the empty road in front of you distract. You should not be distracted from the road. Your driving conditions may change suddenly, so be ready to react in an emergency.