Safe Driving Tips

Being a safe driver is critical, for yourself and everyone else on the road. No matter how safe of a driver you are, there is always room for improvement. Everyone wants to go home to their families.

A lot of people driving cars nowadays don’t know how to drive safely around trucks. That means it’s up to the professional driver to do everything in their power to keep our roads safe. Tractor trailer rigs are big, long, tall, heavy and are more difficult to maneuver which requires the driver to be extra cautious.

Here are a few tips on driving safely:

• Be well rested. Drowsy driving is as bad as drunk driving. Get a good night’s sleep.
• Always drive defensively. Assume the worst and hope for the best.
• Scan your mirrors often. Every 5 to 8 seconds. Know what is on the sides and rear of the truck at all times in case you have to take evasive action.
• Know your blind spots. Install blind spot mirrors when applicable.
• Pay attention to speed limits as well as other advisory road signs.
• Look ahead as far as you can see.
• Keep a good following distance. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recommends you should leave at least one second for every 10 feet of vehicle length when driving below 40 MPH. For a typical tractor-trailer, this results in 4 seconds between you and the leading vehicle. For speeds over 40 MPH, you should leave one additional second. For example, a 70 foot tractor-trailer traveling at 55 MPH should have an 8 second following distance.
• Always wear your seat belt. It saves lives and it’s the law.
• Be extra cautious in construction and school zones.
• Don’t get distracted. Use hands free devices for phones. It is the
• Change your speed according to road, weather, and traffic conditions.
• Be certain about how medications affect your ability to drive. Don’t guess if that prescription will affect you, ask the pharmacist. Even over the counter medication can impair your ability to drive.
• Always be aware of your trailer. Swing wide when turning.
• When backing up, it’s a good idea to get out and look first. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
• Use a truckers GPS. These devices are made specifically for truck drivers and will not only plan the best route but help you avoid low clearance structures.