Hopping into the cab and cruising down the open road seems like a great choice for those looking for a career where they can travel for a living and be their own boss (for the most part!). However, despite the many perks of being a truck driver, trucking is one of the most risky careers you can pick. Time magazine recently rated trucking as number 8 on its list of the 10 most dangerous jobs. Trucking is a crucial job and can be a rewarding career well-worth the risk if drivers follow a few simple safety tips. And of course, having a safe and comfortable Freightliner truck helps too!
Trucking is a crucial job and can be a rewarding career well-worth the risk if drivers follow a few simple safety tips. And of course, having a safe and comfortable Freightliner truck helps too!
5 Safety Tips for Truck Drivers
- Watch your blind spots
All truckers know how frustrating it can be when cars drive up into your “no-zones” off to the side in front of your cab, behind your side mirrors, or directly behind your truck. Make sure that you double check before you turn or change lanes and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to prevent an accident from happening.
- Slow down
Whether you’re in a work zone, driving through a storm, or just going around a curve, it’s important to always maintain a safe speed, no matter how much of a hurry you’re in. Shaving a few minutes off your delivery time just isn’t worth anyone getting hurt or killed in an accident!
- Keep your truck maintained
Get in the habit of thoroughly checking your vehicle every morning before you begin your drive that day. Fluid levels, horn, mirrors, and brakes are all vital pieces of your truck that must be properly functioning. If you spot anything unusual, make sure it’s taken care of before you go anywhere.
- Use common sense when loading cargo
Stacking your cargo high can put a lot of drag on your truck. You should always try to spread your cargo throughout the full space of your truck to lessen your drag and improve your fuel economy.
- Take care of yourself!
Perhaps the most important thing to remember is to take care of yourself along with your vehicle. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating right so you’re ready to drive every day!
Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star
Interested in a new semi-truck with a top safety rating? If you’re in the trucking business or are looking to discover more about commercial truck sales, call on Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star. You can call toll-free at 800-832-7278 or locally at 410-685-4474 or email us your questions and concerns at info@baltimorefreightliner.com.
Since 1986, Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star has provided top quality service for the trucking industry. Whether you need to purchase specialized truck parts from our expansive inventory, expand your fleet with our selection of top-tier trucks, or have your company’s trucks serviced or repaired, Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star is the best choice in trucking.
Become one of our many satisfied customers today!
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Tags: Freightliner, safety tips, trucking safety