Being an owner-operator for a living can be a challenging and dangerous job. Professional driving requires skill and puts a lot of responsibility for the safety of the driver and others on the road. Being safe while on the road is important.
Top Truck Driving Safety Tips
Below are some truck driving safety tips that are made for guidelines and reminders for owner-operators. It is also important to use your best judgment and refer to your carrier's rules and instructions.
Stay Alert: Be sure you are aware of everything going on around you. When driving, you should always look ahead down the road and around your truck to be mindful of your surroundings and any upcoming obstructions so you can act accordingly when necessary. You should always have an ‘escape route’ plan when in heavy traffic. To always stay alert, you should be well rested. Using an electronic logbook system can help you stay rested.
Be Weather Aware: Owner-operators should know of any upcoming weather conditions before starting their route. Be sure to check weather reports often, as the weather can change anytime. To stay weather aware, keep an eye on the temperature outside and watch for any changing conditions. Knowing what to expect can help you be better prepared for bad weather and any precautions you must take.
Avoid Heavy Traffic: Avoid high traffic and peak traffic times when possible. When traveling in high traffic, you are more likely to be involved in an accident.
Check Delivery Spots on Foot: Checking out delivery spots is often ignored by many truck drivers. When delivering, especially to a new location, finding a safe place to park, get out of your truck and check out the area is important. A truck can quickly get stuck and unable to turn around, or some docking facilities are not intended for larger trucks. By checking out the area yourself, you will notice any obstacles, such as posts, fire hydrants, ditches, etc.
Use Caution at Night: Always be extra cautious, especially in tight situations. Many truck drivers leave a truck stop thinking they are headed for the road and end up in the ditch, hitting the backend of another trailer, or hit light posts. It is important to check your surroundings before leaving anywhere at night.
Leave Room in Front of Your Truck: Always leave enough room in front of your truck, even if you must travel below the speed limit. If something goes wrong, it will happen in front of you. The more space you have in front of you and another vehicle, the more time you will have to correct or slow down if needed.
Minimize Lane Changes: When on the road, try to pick a lane and stay in it. When necessary, change lanes, move carefully, be aware of all blind spots, and check your mirrors. The likelihood of an accident increases each time a vehicle changes lanes. You should always take the 2nd lane from the right to avoid merging vehicles when getting off the highway.
Use GPS: Truck drivers should use a GPS specially designed for truck drivers to show the specific exit, distance before the exit, when to change lanes, traffic reports, etc. These GPS devices are often higher in cost but worth the extra expense.
Slow Down: This is one of the most important driving tips for owner-operators. Large trucks do not take turns like small vehicles or drive like one. It is always important to take ramps and turns slowly. It doesn’t matter if you must go below the speed limit as long as you are safe.
Take Breaks and Check Your Truck: Drivers should stop and take regular breaks to stretch, walk around the trailer, check your load, look for any air leaks, soft tires, and check under the hood.
Owner-operators or any professional driver should not skip these safety tips while driving. When safety is ignored, you compromise your safety and others on the road traveling with you. Remember, it is important to arrive safely; nothing is worth risking your life or someone else’s.