In order to operate a large truck, a person must be trained to follow a set of basic practices.
Driving a large truck is not like driving a car. This is a common misconception and could not be further from the truth. In order to operate a large vehicle, a person needs sufficient training. Here are 4 basic truck driving practices that every trucker should follow.
Inspect Your Truck Before You Hit The Road
In order to ensure that your trip goes as planned, you would be wise to inspect your truck before you take off on your assignment. Check things such as your lights, your tire pressure, the pins and last inspection date.
Always Pay Attention To The Road
Truck drivers are frequently assigned large routes. It is extremely easy to lose focus when you are behind the wheel for hours at a time. For safety reasons, you want to always keep your focus on the road. In addition, you don’t want to get lost on one of your trips. For that reason, always pay attention to road signs. If you ever need to stop somewhere, make sure you know how to get back onto the highway.
Don’t Ever Swerve
This is a tough one. Let’s say a cute little deer just appeared out of nowhere and in front of your truck. As awful as this sounds, you should not try and swerve to avoid it. If you do, you are putting yourself in harm’s way. Due to the fact that trucks weigh tons, it is difficult to break in an instant. If you were jam on the brakes when you’re going 60 miles per hour, there is a good chance you will flip the vehicle. The best thing you can do is slow down and remain on a straight path.
Always Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
An 18 wheeler vehicle can cause some serious damage. With that said, a truck driver always needs to be aware of his or her surroundings. As soon as a driver puts their keys into the ignition they need to have their head on the swivel. Trucks accidents occur all the time in parking lots because truck drivers don’t look behind them well enough.
Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star
Protect your truckers and keep them informed! Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet to tow trucks or simply interested in the latest trucking technology, you can rely on Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star. We have provided top-notch service for the trucking industry for 30 years and would love to assist you in buying a new top-of-the-line truck, finding the specialty parts you need, or repairing your truck. Give us a call toll-free at 800-832-7278 or locally at 410-685-4474, or contact us online. To find out more about what we are up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+
Tags: tips, truck-driving-practices, trucking