Safety Tips For Semi Truck Drivers
Commercial semi truck driving is the backbone of many businesses and an integral part of the US economy. So far, there has been no sign of a slow down in this trend. Semi trucks drivers can make a good amount of money along with traveling the length and breadth of the country, taking in all the beauty America has to offer.
Remember, though, that semi trucks are some of the biggest vehicles on the road and the operator is responsible for the safety of its contents, his own safety as well as that of other commuters on the road. With that in mind, we at Victory Custom Trailers have compiled some safe driving tips for you. To check out some sturdy semi trucks for sale, visit our dealership in Metamora, MI. We also cater to the areas of Detroit and Flint.
Proper Licenses
Driving a semi truck is serious business so make sure you have the right paperwork for it. That includes a proper license. You’ll probably need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), for which you’ll have to undertake a knowledge and skills test. CDLs are of three types: Class A, B and C. You’ll most likely need a Class A CDL but ask your employer or carrier about the license.
With a Class A CDL, you can operate a semi truck with two or more axles. You can also operate a semi truck with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,000 pounds or more. Most heavy truck drivers, dispatchers, local drivers, couriers and even bus drivers have this license. Give yourself ample time to practice and obtain the license.
Space Cushion
The area around your semi truck that you need to be aware of when driving is called the ‘space cushion’. This includes the space directly to either side of you, the front, the back and everything above you and below you. Places like toll booths, parking spaces, tunnels, bridges and overpasses will test your knowledge of your space cushion; you’ll want to ensure you can safely traverse them.
Blind Spots
Increased blind spots are well-known hazards of semi truck driving. You can lose sight of several cars, so you’ll need to be particularly mindful of your blind spots. If you weave in and out of traffic, you could cut off other drivers or even cause an accident. The size of your truck can block signs for other drivers.
Don’t assume the car on the other side of you will get out of the way because you just passed a merge right sign. That car probably didn’t see it. One way to ensure the safety of all drivers is to use your turn signals generously. Give them plenty of time to get out of the way and clear room for your rig. Also consider installing a reasonable number of extra mirrors to maximize your scope of visibility.
Secure the Cargo
This holds more true for the times you’re loading your semi truck with a storage container. If you stack the cargo very high, it’s going to create a drag effect on the truck. Spread out the cargo in a few rows toward the bottom of the truck; the key is to evenly distribute the load throughout the containment area. This will help you stay in control of your cargo and save fuel.
Prep for Bad Weather
Keep an eye on the weather forecasts for the days you have to be on the road. The lower traction on wet or icy roads means you’ll need to increase the follow distance so you have plenty of time to slow down to a stop, no matter how sudden it may be for the cars in front of you. Also, in low-traction conditions, you shouldn’t use an engine brake or ‘Jake Brake’ as it can cause you to lose control.
There are many other weather hazards you’ll want to keep in mind, like fog, wind, blowing sand or snow, and brightness of the sun that may cause your driving to become difficult. The best thing you can do is slow down, and if things get really bad, take a break and pull over at the next stop.
We hope these tips help you and your semi truck stay safe on the roads! For additional help or to see the semi trucks for sale in our inventory, visit Victory Custom Trailers in Metamora, MI. We welcome all our patrons from Detroit and Flint.