Simple effective tips to help keep drivers safe on the road.
When your office is on the road and you are impacted by other motorists your safety is the highest priority. From long hours, ever changing weather conditions and unpredictable traffic there is no doubt that being a truck driver is considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the United States.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics work-related fatalities, injuries and illnesses are on the rise. We have put together some simple, yet effective tips to help our drivers be safe on the road.
Slow Down
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 23% of trucking accidents we caused by traveling too fast. Being mindful of construction zones and rapid changing weather conditions can greatly decrease the changes of being involved in an accident.
Blind Spot Awareness
Cars are getting faster, and drivers do not always follow the rules of the road when it comes to passing lanes. Get to know your blind spots and be sure to signal well in advance before making a lane change or a turn giving smaller vehicles plenty of time to get out of your blind spot.
Know your stopping distance
Trucks take much longer to stop than cars. Combined with reaction time and speed it can take some trucks up to 540 feet to come to a complete stop. That is almost two football fields. Whether you are hauling a full truck load or even less-than-truckload, stopping distance is an important factor for accident avoidance.
Follow posted speed limits
Some trucks are equipped with speed monitoring and GPS tracking in place to limit the overall speed of a truck, however it can still be tempting in rural wide-open areas to exceed that limit. Maintaining the correct speed limit will keep truck drivers and their loads safe and greatly increase driver reaction time in inclement weather conditions.
Encourage breaks and adequate rest
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, truck drivers are required to take a 30-minute break when they have driven for 8 consecutive hours. Driver safety is a priority and it’s important get enough rest to avoid driving while sleepy.
Follow pre-trip and post trip truck inspections
To ensure you and your truck are in the best condition possible to travel be sure to follow all pre trip and post trip inspections. Post trip inspections are just as important as pre-trip inspections as things can always happen during a long haul. Lights, brakes and loose connections are all key factors to consider in your pre and post trip truck inspections.
Always wear your safety belt
Wearing your safety belt, a requirement of the job and a law in all states. Not only will it save your life, but your safety belt is one of the best ways to keep you in the driver seat and in control should you be involved in an accident.
Maintain your health
We all now that eating healthy and getting enough exercise can improve your energy. Be mindful if you are feeling a little under the weather. Some over-the-counter medications can cause drowsiness and increase distracted driving. With all the health precautions of living though a global pandemic, now is the best time to be vigilant of your health.
ITF Group LLC encourages all safe driving tips and has built a reputation on being safe. We encourage referrals for safe drivers and offer incentives for those that maintain a safe driving record. We are committed to the safety of our drivers by investing in new technology and job training.