Richard AgamaMany truck drivers feel nervous when operating on busy highways—it’s a high-pressure job that often leads to speeding in an attempt to complete tasks quickly. However, drivers must prioritize their safety and the safety of the cars around them when on busy roads. Here are some essential tips for safely driving commercial trucks to keep yourself and others accident-free.
Remain Spatially Aware
Understanding how much space your truck needs is crucial when on the road. Additionally, knowing how much time and distance you need to come to a complete stop at common speeds reduces the chance of injury should you need to apply your brakes quickly. Keeping an eye on the activity on either side of your truck is equally important, as many cars have the potential to hide in your blind spots. Regularly check your mirrors while driving to analyze the space around you.
Take Care of Your Truck
Ideally, you won’t need to pull over and perform any maintenance on your truck throughout your journey. We recommend performing a thorough inspection of your truck before and after you go on any lengthy treks. Making these checks allows you to preemptively address the majority of issues and experience a safer trip. Be prepared by keeping a kit full of essential tools, gear, and equipment you may need to perform routine maintenance in your truck if you need to pull over for any reason.
Adjust for Adverse Weather Conditions
It’s always a good idea to look at the weather forecast throughout your trip. Knowing if you should expect rain, hail, or fog helps you plan your time accordingly and allow you to make any necessary adjustments to your driving. If the rain gets too heavy, we suggest finding a safe place to pull over until it lessens or clears up—bad weather is among the top factors when it comes to traffic accidents. One of the most essential tips for safely driving commercial trucks is knowing that it’s not worth the risk to drive in unsafe conditions.
