Freight truckers are the unsung heroes of shipping and transportation. They spend extended periods on the road to ensure that the masses receive necessities like groceries, toiletries, and pharmaceuticals.
However, because they’re on the road for such long stretches, truckers must be responsible for their own safety and the safety of everyone they share the road with. Fortunately, truckers can enhance on-the-road safety by following the tips in this guide. Read on to learn more.
Load Securement and Pre-Trip Inspections
Novice and seasoned truckers alike will tell you that it’s important to take steps to enhance safety before hitting the road. Pre-trip truck inspections are among the best ways to do this. These inspections allow truckers to ensure trucks are in perfect condition before each trip.
Pre-trip inspections typically entail the following things:
- Engine and battery examination
- Tire and wheel evaluation
- Trailer and trailer door inspection
After these inspections, the next step is to ensure that you properly secure your shipment. After all, effective securement solutions are the best ways to protect your truck’s cargo while driving.
Exercising Extreme Caution and Alertness
Examining your truck and securing your cargo before you hit the road is only part of the equation. To prevent hazardous situations from unfolding on the road, you must also exercise extreme caution and alertness on every trip. Pay attention to traffic laws and signage around you.
Ensure that you’re adhering to the speed limit and give other drivers plenty of space. You should also avoid making sharp turns and stay in one lane as much as possible. Doing so will keep you and everyone you share the road with safe.
Avoid Distractions and Risky Behaviors
As a trucker, you can also enhance safety by avoiding distractions and risky behaviors on the road. Doing this usually means refraining from certain things while driving, including:
- Talking, texting, or otherwise using your phone
- Fiddling with paperwork, wallets, or other items
- Eating or drinking messy or unmanageable snacks
It’s also imperative to avoid risky behaviors like drinking alcoholic beverages or consuming other substances that might impair your ability to drive safely.
In short, as a trucker, you’re responsible for driving safely on the road. Hopefully, the tips in this guide shed some light on a few simple things you can do to stay safe throughout every trip.
