Trucking is a dangerous job, between the
obvious road hazards and the effects of sitting for hours on end. While
you can’t avoid all of the dangers while hauling cargo, you can employ
certain tactics that make the job safer for you and everyone else on the
road. Try some of these safety tips while behind the wheel of a big
rig:
- Seat belt: Seat belts are essential for
stabilizing a trucker’s body during an accident. Without one, a person
can be thrown through the windshield or side window, causing more damage
as the truck continues moving without a driver.
- Brake: Big rigs take longer to fully stop than
passenger vehicles. Applying slow, steady pressure to the brakes well in
advance is required for safely stopping.
- Bad weather: Drive slowly during bouts of rain and other bad weather to keep from sliding or jackknifing.
- Blind spot: Make good use of your mirrors when turning and changing lanes to avoid accidents in a truck’s blind spot (or no-zone).
- Exit ramps: Slow your speed when driving over
highway entrance or exit ramps. Taking the curves too quickly can cause
loss of control or a rollover because of trucks’ high center of gravity.
- Cell phones: Talking on a cell phone is more
distracting than you may think and texting while driving can have worse
effects than driving while intoxicated. Limit phone usage to your breaks
and, if you must make a call, use a hands-free headset.
- Rest: A lack of sleep can make you sluggish and
irritable, while reducing your reaction time. Get a full night of sleep
before climbing behind the wheel (which goes for any form of driving!).
- Breaks: Take a break every two to four hours to
stretch out your arms and legs. Walk a few circles around your truck to
relieve the tension that develops from sitting for extended periods of
time. Breaks help you stay focused and feel refreshed.
The right coverage is a great way to stay safe. Call
Security First Insurance Agency at (810) 732-5800 for more information on
Flint MI trucking insurance.
No comments:
Post a Comment