It’s important not to forget how truck drivers can best avoid accidents when they’re driving.
Truck drivers are trained to do their jobs and do them well, but there’s never any harm in brushing up on some tips to help avoid an accident. As much as safety is always urged, it can be easy to forget some of the fundamentals when you’re thinking about everything else that matters. Your mind may be focused on getting the job done efficiently, staying healthy and happy on the road, and more. It’s important not to forget how truck drivers can best avoid accidents when they’re driving.
Take It Slow
As any professional truck driver knows, it’s key that you take your time. No matter what you’re doing, keep a level head, and do it as slowly as possible without it becoming unsafe or inefficient. That means pulling in or out of docking zones, finding a place to pull over, or just finding your destination — take your time and don’t rush it. Otherwise, you may find yourself in an accident.
Plan Your Trips
Do whatever you can to familiarize yourself with whatever steps are going to be involved in your trip. Look up your destination on Google maps, plan your route out as best you can, and speak with a customer or anyone on the receiving end so you can get a better idea of what the area is like. Driving somewhere you haven’t been can be scary for truck drivers, so do what you can to familiarize yourself with what you’re getting into before heading out.
Use Road Maps
GPS is handy to have. In fact, more times than not, you’re going to find yourself relying on one, especially if you get a reliable one that performs under all kinds of conditions. That said, it’s always a good idea to have a physical road map. A high-quality road map can end up being a trucking essential during emergency scenarios, so it’s always good to have one and study it.
Double Check Directions
Call the customer and talk to the receiver, the person who actually works with the trucks and guides them in and out of the facility every day. They may have some insight that you’d be unable to get just by looking at a map or GPS. This helps increase your sense of what the area may be like and, in high-stress situations like urban dropoff zones, it’ll be invaluable to learn as much as you can.
Scrutinize Spotters
A spotter can be useful when you’re backing your truck up, but remember that they’re only going to be looking at one part of your vehicle. If you feel uncertain, get out and look for yourself. You can get a better idea of what the situation looks like, which can prevent serious accidents.
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Follow us here at Evan Transportation to get more updates on driving tips and the trucking industry. Evan Transportation provides trucking and transportation services for clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. We can fulfill local or regional deliveries, as well as same day pick-ups and deliveries. Our operations prioritize efficiency, safety, and your satisfaction with our services. All of our drivers and staff are offered competitive salaries, benefits, and are guaranteed to be home every day. Interested in finding out more? Visit us online or give us a call at 443-673-3365. For even more information, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.