1. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT
No exceptions.
2. GET ENOUGH REST
All the trucking safety tips in the world won’t help if you’re not getting enough sleep.
You may need to sleep and relax when you’d rather be driving, but in most cases, you’ll have plenty of time to get sufficient rest.
3. STAY ALERT
Being aware of your surroundings is key when operating a commercial vehicle.
Maintaining alertness means:
Not allowing yourself to daydream or “space out”
Looking well ahead, not just directly in front of you
Checking your mirrors frequently
Being aware of what’s happening in your blind spots
Always plan an escape route (in case you need it)
4. DRIVE RESPONSIBLY
As a commercial driver, safe driving is up to you.
Defensive driving tips include:
Obeying posted speed limits
Adjusting your speed to road and weather conditions
Avoiding erratic braking and lane changes
Leaving enough space between you and the vehicles in front of you
Checking your mirrors frequently
Being aware of your surroundings
Adhering to Hours-of-Service regulations
5. SLOW AND STEADY WINS THE RACE
Driving at safe speeds is one of the best ways to avoid accidents, and it’ll do wonders for your health and finances too.
Driving slowly:
Reduces the likelihood of getting a ticket
Lowers stress levels
Improves fuel efficiency
Causes less wear-and-tear on equipment
6. AVOID AGGRESSIVE DRIVERS
Whether in cars, vans or semis, aggressive drivers can turn otherwise good days into epic nightmares.
When you see someone driving erratically, do whatever you can to put distance between yourself and them.
7. SCOPE NEW AREAS OUT ON FOOT
This great tip usually gets overlooked by all but the savviest trucking veterans.
Everyday truckers of all stripes get themselves into serious pickles by:
Turning onto narrow streets in unfamiliar cities
Entering shipper and receiver facilities the wrong way
Pulling into lots that aren’t big enough to turn around in
80-foot-long combination vehicles don’t turn on a dime, and backing them out of tight spaces can be downright impossible.
When possible, find a safe parking area, switch on the flashers, and take a quick stroll to the area in question to make sure it’s accessible.
