Preventing accidents can save you a lot of money. As drivers we are on the road often and need to try and travel safely. Making use of truck and trailer safety tips will help not only you as a truck driver but all your fellow road users too. Below are some truck and trailer safety tips that can be of great use to all drivers.
Tip 1: If you cannot see the truck’s side mirror, then the truck driver cannot see you. So make sure you are visible all the time.
Tip 2: Leave space between your car and the truck if you stop behind the truck on a hill. The truck can roll backwards and bump into your car. Maintain additional space with the vehicle in front of you when driving in wet weather conditions.
Tip 3: Ensure your truck has enough space when turning. For large trucks you will need two lanes to turn.
Tip 4: Double check your mirrors when turning right. Motorists may not know that you need to swing wide to the left to make a right turn and they may not realize that you are turning. So indicate well in advance where you are going.
Tip 5: Don’t stack your truck’s cargo too high. The higher you stack cargo, the more drag on the truck. By stacking lower and spreading cargo through the full space of the truck, you can stay more nimble and improve not only visibility but your fuel economy too.
Tip 6: Vehicle maintenance is an important way to extend your truck and trailer’s life. Plus it’s a huge safety issue in the trucking business.
Tip 7: Trucks do not drive like cars. Trucks tend to have special hazards because they have large blind spots also known as ‘No Zones’ and need additional room when turning.
Tip 8: When being passed by a truck and trailer on a wet day slow down slightly, as water spray from the truck’s tyres can reduce visibility.
Tip 9: When travelling on multi-lane highways, it is a good idea not to position your vehicle between two or more large vehicles.
Tip 10: Make sure you use the right size hitch ball for your trailer. Don’t try use a 1-7/8 inch ball on a 2 inch trailer, even though they are close. The trailer could pop during towing.
Tip 11: Overtake on a level terrain with plenty of clearance space. Avoid overtaking on the uphill or downhill. Overtaking on a bridge is also not advisable.
Tip 12: Learn how to inspect your brakes, identify safety defects and get them repaired before risking your life and others on the highway. Invest in quality truck and trailer parts.
