10 Truck Driving Safety Tips Every Professional Driver Should Follow

It's common knowledge that it takes guts to become a truck driver. But it takes wisdom to succeed at being one. That's because truck driving is a high-risk job, and getting home in one piece is at the top of your list of concerns.

As a CDL driver, getting acquainted with safety keys is a tremendous asset. In the next few minutes. You will get safety information that will help your trips end well and help you experience the joy of seeing your loved ones after every workday.

1. Check Weather Reports

Adverse weather is one of the worst adversaries of truck drivers. Whether you are an experienced driver or not, an unexpected change in weather can ruin your road plans. That's why drivers with an eye for safety mustn't gloss over the verdict of the weatherman. You can best prepare to park in your truck in snowy conditions. Also, knowing the weather will help you anticipate poor visibility, plan your driving time, and avoid road crashes.

2. Take Breaks, Catch Your Breath

Truck drivers boost their paychecks by staying on the road. Therefore, it could be pretty tempting to want to stay in action for as long as possible. But the demand for safety is greater than any sum of money. Therefore, be careful to get enough sleep or rest between trips. It is important to your safety that you keep your body and mind in the best condition while on the road.

3. Avoid Traffic

Busy roads are a problematic situation for truck drivers. Trucks can't turn or maneuver like other vehicles. Therefore, it's preferable to stay as far away from other roadside companions as you can. This way, you can significantly reduce your chances of running into any of them.

4. Maintain Your Alertness

There are many situations or jobs that can allow distractions. Truck driving isn't one of them. This is because there are many unpredictable situations one can encounter on the road. A sudden halt by a vehicle in front of you, the unexpected presence of a road construction worker, or a crossing animal are common examples. Disciplined truck drivers must avoid checking out billboards or being on the phone while on the road.

5. Use the Seat Belt

The use of seatbelts is a habit that could potentially save your life. According to the Department of Transportation, 13% of the truck drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2019 were unstrapped. That's why you must try never to hit the road without buckling up.

6. Slow But Steady…

When you decide to speed, you endanger yourself and other road drivers. Due to the significant weight disparity between trucks and passenger cars — which can range from 20 to 30 times—trucks are more difficult to manage in an emergency. Therefore, always drive within the speed limit.

7. Scope Out Delivery Locations on Foot

Delivery locations are usually unfamiliar terrain. Always ensure they are accommodating enough for your truck to turn around or reverse out. Stop your car safely and walk to the delivery site to get a feel for the area. Map out the optimum parking space after identifying all potential barriers, such as vehicles or fire hydrants.

8. Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

You will endanger your safety as a truck driver if you use drugs or alcohol. To combat the dangerous aspect of the truck driving industry, you must combine quick reaction time with wise decision-making. Alcohol and drug use will rob you of these resources.

9. Use Vehicle Signals

Ensure that you maintain predictability as you drive. You can prevent accidents by using your vehicle's signals at the appropriate times. Vehicle signals help other drivers know your intentions and respond accordingly.

10. Use a Trucker's GPS

The GPS on a truck is a driver's best friend. With one, you can get details like traffic updates, when to switch lanes, which exits to take, and how far you are from the next one.

Drive Safely Every Day

Although you have little influence over how other drivers will behave, you are still primarily responsible for maintaining safety. Therefore, it is best to do your part in ensuring your well-being. The advice you've read here will help you accomplish that and ensure you return home safely each workday.