Transport trucks have a major role in getting goods to markets regularly. They are physically huge, and most of the time, their route is the same as other vehicles.
Moreover, what the truck driver experiences in the driver’s seat differ from a small car. Truck drivers should maintain a high level of road safety to ensure their own as well the safety of other drivers who share the road.
Here are a few safety tips that can help you drive safely on your route.
Pack Your Truck Properly
As a heavy haulage driver, pack your truck properly so there is no risk of an accident along the way. Don’t rush to load everything in the truck without double-checking it. Often when a truck is flipped on the road, it is because a load of cargo is not balanced evenly.
In some cases, if the back door opens with the pressure of weight, the goods can fall, which poses a risk for other drivers. Moreover, it can also put pressure on the brakes, making it unsafe for you to drive.
Check Your Vehicle Before Driving
Just like cars and motorcycles, trucks can also break down in the middle of the road if not maintained. Get your car examined by a mechanic before you hit the road to ensure safety.
Since you have to check it more, you will have to do it yourself. Ask for advice from a mechanic and make a list of things to review, such as:
- Check if the brakes and tires are in working condition
- If the headlights are broken, get them replaced with amber warning lights. These lights will help you see even in horrible weather conditions.
- Get the engine checked and if the truck needs any oil changes.
Stay Alert on the Road
It is often hard to stay active most of the time on the road, especially if traveling long hours in a truck is your job. But you can take some steps to ensure you are alert on the road.
Make sure to get plenty of rest ahead of the trip. Also, get rest throughout the trip until you reach a stop area. Lack of sleep can put your life as well as others at risk.
Besides rest, ensure you get enough nutrients from your diet to maintain focus for longer periods. Make healthy eating choices to help you stay alert and provide long-term health benefits.
Follow the Speed Limit and Wear a Seatbelt
As a truck driver, you should follow the speed limit and look out for sign boards mentioning the speed. It is better to drive slowly to maintain the flow of traffic. As trucks are heavier than regular cars, it tends to be more dangerous when they speed up.
Many deaths from car accidents result because drivers don’t wear a seatbelt. If you have passengers on board, make sure they wear their seatbelts.
Many trucks also have bunks to rest up. Unless these have restraints, passengers should not use them while the truck is driving.
