Truck driving comes with great responsibility. If you are stepping into the big world of trucks, then there are some essential tips and techniques that you must know. They will help you to be safe and complete your job successfully.
If you are a newbie to truck driving, then follow the safe driving tips mentioned below. I can guarantee you that your first truck job will be a pleasant one.
1. Eat healthy
Eating out at the truck shops and restaurants will not only cost you money, but they can adversely affect your health too. The food can make you sick, fat, and broke. Your health is of utmost importance if you want to perform your job well. You can consider making your own food if your truck has an inverter. Prepare your own food, including fruits and vegetables, and store them in the truck so that you don't have to rely on unhealthy outside food.
2. Do a good pre-trip inspection
A truck driver's journey is usually long. You need to drive on different types of roads and highways. A pro safety tip is to thoroughly inspect your truck before you set out on the journey. The inspection includes a check-up of semi-truck and the load to ensure everything is in order.
Check the tires, lights, fifth wheel, the pins, and the valve stem covers too. It is advisable to have a tool kit with you every time you set out on a journey. A pre-trip inspection can save you from getting stuck on highways and other roads where help is not easily accessible. A thorough inspection will also alert you about the faults in the truck and you will be able to fix it before setting out on the journey.
3. Always get enough sleep
This goes without saying that as a truck driver, one of the most important things is to get a good sleep before and after each journey. Truck driving involves extended hours of traveling during the day and at nights too.
Lack of sleep can make you inattentive towards the road ahead. And in such a scenario the chances of encountering an accident are high. Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep each day. Also, be attentive towards your body's natural feeling of sleepiness. Try to maintain the same sleeping pattern each day. Take breaks and stop at the same time each day to maintain a healthy sleep routine. This will help you get better sleep and you will be able to perform well at your job.
4. Stop and look before reversing
Reversing a large truck is much trickier than it looks. So before you reverse, make sure that there are no vehicles approaching from behind. You need to keep an eagle's eye on the distance, visibility, and speed.
Most of the accidents happen because of these three factors. Visibility is the most critical factor when reversing your large vehicle. When you start reversing, you may have a large blind spot, so always take a look and do the straight line backing. Also keep a low speed.
5. Drive slow in bad weather
Your safety is the first priority on the roads. Driving large trucks, especially in adverse weather conditions, is a very big challenge in itself. You will need specific skills that will help you to drive smoothly. It is important to know how to maneuver on ice and snow-filled roads. Poor visibility, poor traction, and unpredictable roads add to the danger.
The best way to be safe in bad weather conditions is to drive slow and follow the speed limit strictly. You should know what your vehicle can handle and drive accordingly.
6. Don't make abrupt lane changes
Remember that you are driving a large truck. A slight mistake in handling the vehicle can cost a life. Maintain lane safety and avoid making abrupt changes. Follow the lane discipline and take enough time to shift your lane. Keep your eyes on the mirror to make sure that it is safe to change the lane and there are no vehicles speeding behind.
It is crucial for you as a truck driver to take the necessary precautions while driving a large vehicle. By following the above-mentioned safety tips you can reduce the risk of accidents and drive smoothly.
