Becoming A Safer Truck Driver
As a truck driver, it is important to be aware of the safety concerns and precautions that need to be taken while driving. There are several things you can do to help keep yourself and others safe on the road. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the ways you can stay safe while driving your truck. Keep on reading!
1. Follow the Rules of the Road
It is important to be familiar with the rules of the road and to obey them at all times. This includes following the speed limit, using proper lane positioning, and signaling when changing lanes & turning. This is simple yet, for some, the hardest to follow. It is all about the attitude! When you are focused on your on-time performance and avoiding complacency and laziness, you are able to focus on driving safely and obeying the law. If you are in a rush, you will be impatient and have a higher likelihood of slacking on road safety.
2. Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is very dangerous, and it is important to avoid all distractions while driving. Things like texting, talking on the phone, and eating are high risk behavior. Decreasing risk is key in this industry, when you are able to stay on task when driving you are less likely to be involved in an accident on the road. This is harder said than done; however we have a saying at AJG: “You family will thank you when you are at home.”
3. Stay Focused
It is important to stay focused when driving, especially when travelling long distances. Avoid daydreaming and keep your eyes on the road at all times. Your mind will be running throughout your 14 hours on duty, be sure you have productive information flowing into your brain. Podcasts are always our first choice for listening while being in the present driving, it allows us to enjoy conversation while on the road and even learn something as we go.
4. Keep a Safe Distance from Other Vehicles
It is important to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles when driving. This will help you avoid collisions and ensure that you have enough time to brake safely. There is always a danger of becoming entranced in tunnel vision on the road - be sure you are constantly engaging your brain. Look at the colors of the cars around you: This strategy keeps you present and keeps you alert to changes in your surroundings all along your trip.
5. Use Caution in Bad Weather
Bad weather can be very dangerous for truck drivers, so it is important to use caution when driving in these conditions. Make sure to reduce speed and use caution when driving in rain, snow, or ice. Black Ice is a key issue when it comes to weather in winter, so do your research before even getting in the driver’s seat to make sure you are aware of the best route to your destination. Remember, the interstate is always the safest path, even if it is slower due to changing road conditions.
6. Watch for Hazards
It is important to be aware of potential hazards while driving and to take steps to avoid them. This includes things like wildlife on the road, potholes, and construction zones. This reinforces the 2 truck length rule that AJG stands by when driving. There is no need to be in a rush ever, even if the appointment is in jeopardy. Guarantee your safety by continually watch for hazards, and your dispatcher will handle the rest.
7. Stay Alert
It is important to stay alert while driving and to take periodic breaks to avoid fatigue. This will help keep you safe on the road. Some strategies we use at AJG are focusing on landmarks, cars around us, and focusing on closer destinations rather than the end destination. For example, when we add fuel stops to our route, we are then able to take the route in pieces. Focusing on the next stop allows you to achieve small distance goals rather than one large one.
8. Plan Ahead
It is important to plan ahead while driving, especially when traveling long distances. This includes plotting out your route and checking for traffic and weather updates while taking breaks. At AJG Transport, planning ahead is the key difference between our competitors. We plan the entire week for our units, which allows them to ensure they have the right amount of supplies, clothes, and are aware of the roads they will ride on throughout the week.
9. Be Prepared for Emergencies
It is important to be prepared for emergencies while driving. This includes having a roadside emergency kit handy. Checking that you have extra fuses, PPE and the knowledge to resolve small issues is crucial. Most of the issues on the road that are solved without roadside assistance are either fuse related or simply fixable at truck stops. Emergencies are going to happen, but your truck must be outfitted with the best possible equipment for any situation.
10. Drive Defensively
Driving defensively is the best way to stay safe while driving. This means being aware of your surroundings at all times and taking steps to avoid potential collisions. Think on strategies that will keep you in the present and will allow you to focus on everything around you including cars, pedestrians, other moving objects alongside the oncoming traffic.
By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and others safe while driving your truck.
Stay safe out there!
AJG Administration
HQ@AJGTransport.com