Large trucks are at the center of most cargo delivery and construction businesses across America. These machines are essential for carrying out daily operations, which makes it crucial that the proper safety measures are in place while driving. Practicing the right safety procedures while handling a large truck can be the difference between a safe and effective operation, and a costly and dangerous accident.
All our White’s International dealerships in NC strive to promote a driving culture that protects everyone on the road. We recommend using these safety tips to lower any risks of harm while operating large trucks.
Distancing
When it comes to being behind the wheel of any large truck, it’s important to remember that you aren’t handling an everyday vehicle. Large trucks tend to take a bit longer to slow down which gives a driver less time to react if there is a sudden issue right in front of them. Practice giving the drivers ahead of you ample space so that if there’s a collision or any other problem you have time to stop without having to swerve abruptly into another lane or skid off the road. Driving large trucks can also inhibit your view of what’s immediately ahead if you drive too closely behind other vehicles. Not to mention, it greatly reduces the rear visibility of smaller vehicles in front. For the well-being of you and your fellow drivers, it’s always good to leave some distance between your truck and other vehicles.
Hitching
If you are operating a truck that requires an additional part to be hitched, you’ll want to ensure your hitch is secure before hitting the road. Various types of large trucks rely on hitching to transport trailers filled with cargo across long distances. If your hitch is not executed properly, you risk having your maneuverability compromised and losing your trailer while operating your truck. There are several different hitch types to accommodate the variations of trailers available. It’s a good idea to consult your user manual if you are utilizing a new trailer with a hitch that is unfamiliar to you. This will reduce your risks of damage and loss of your haul on the highway. Hitching also relies on the right weight distribution and center of gravity, so this step is crucial to prevent damage to your truck as well.
Storage
Securing your stored cargo is yet another important task that you need to master if you’ll be spending a lot of time on the road with your truck. Before every haul, you should ensure that the contents of your trailer are strapped in securely with little possibility of movement while you drive. Having your cargo bumping around in your trailer can be very distracting and cause you to take your attention off the road. This can again be a detriment to you and your fellow drivers. Take the time to secure all your valuables and test that they are rooted in place to avoid dangerous mishaps while operating your truck.
Our teams across NC are happy to show you our stock of impressive large trucks. We’re also happy to answer any further questions you may have on proper truck driving safety!
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