Operating commercial trucks can be difficult work that requires the right degree of defensive driving. This means remaining both alert and responsible on the road every time you hop inside your truck. Following the right safety standards while driving a commercial truck is key to preserving your safety and the safety of your fellow drivers.
That’s why our team at White’s International Trucks in North Carolina have outlined these essential safety tips for truck operators who spend most of their time on the road. Following these strategies is the best way to protect yourself and your property on the job.
Three Second Rule
One of the most effective guidelines for safety is the three second rule. This entails avoiding forward and rear collisions by allowing three seconds between you and the driver ahead. This should give you ample time to come to a stop or avoid a collision ahead in case of any mishaps. During times of heavy winds or rains, drivers are also encouraged to raise their follow time to five seconds and ten seconds if the road is icy or covered in frost. Following this simple step is one of the most effective ways to maintain your safety while operating your commercial truck on the job.
Routine Maintenance
Developing a preventative maintenance schedule is also vital if you want to avoid risks to you and your commercial truck. If you don’t make time to ensure your truck gets the routine maintenance it needs, you become far more vulnerable to breakdowns and emergencies. It’s important to schedule your oil and brake pad changes, as well as filter changes and other necessary procedures. Even if you are up to date with general upkeep on your truck, getting a professional to check for any faults is always a good idea. This will guarantee your truck is roadworthy and in optimal shape so you can focus on completing your task at hand.
Prepare for Changing Conditions
Another way to increase your safety and the safety of your fleet is to stay prepared for changing conditions on the road. This is especially necessary for drivers who spend long hours away and are more likely to facing changing weather conditions. Checking the weather in advance or investing in weather trackers is the best way to prepare for slippery roads, impaired visibility due to rain, snow or hail, and other threats. You can also purchase traffic trackers to know when to reroute your vehicle or your fleet to avoid dangerous conditions.
You can visit any of our stores in North Carolina to view our great stock of commercial trucks. We’re also happy to provide more commercial truck driving tips to all customers!
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