Driver Safety

Safe driving methods are important for any driver – and are especially important for those who have turned truck driving into a profession. No matter how experienced, professional drivers must remember to stay safe out there on the roads at all times. Keep these tips in mind the next time you decide to hit the open road.

• Leave space - While your initial drivers education may have told you to practice the ”two-second rule”, there is a lot more to it than that. Make sure that you keep a safe distance between your vehicle, and other objects or cars on the road. This includes bridges above, the surface underneath your truck, the space between you and the car in front of you, the rear space and the space surrounding the driver and passenger door.
• Check travel conditions - Be familiar with the terrain and travel conditions before embarking on your next journey, especially if you have never been there before. Check the conditions of your travel early on, so you can be sure to account for any obstacles or difficulties you may find on your journey.
• Do your research - It is important to recognize the unique traffic laws, weather conditions, possible construction or difficult terrain. You may even need to take special routes depending on the material you are transporting. If it is particularly hazardous, then it may be necessary to take alternate routes to get to your destination.
• Inspect your vehicle - Be sure to perform pre and post trip inspections of your vehicle. Before and after your journey, check to see that all necessary repairs are in order before risking a long and difficult drive.
• Slow down - While there are certain to be some long and tiresome drives, be sure to remain a safe and legal speed when driving in order to properly slow down when you have reached your destination. Remember that the longer you have been driving, the more difficult it will be to slow down. Give yourself some space before you know you must come to a stop, and take it easy on the breaks.

With these tips, your driving adventures are sure to be a success!