Road Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

Hauling cargo long distances is not for everybody. Truck drivers deal with demanding terrains, long routes, and inclement weather conditions every day while expected to deliver on time.  

Professional truck drivers are responsible for the safety of the cargo, themselves and others while on the road, so following strict safety precautions is mandatory.  

Here is a list of  key tips to follow and increase road safety.  

Defensive driving 

Drivers must always be aware of potential hazards and ever-changing road conditions. Defensive driving involves anticipating situations that might be dangerous and taking appropriate action to always ensure safety. Driving defensively reduces the risk of accidents and costly repairs and/or insurance payouts, so it pays to be safe. 

Key defensive driving practices: 

• Check blind spots  

Many accidents are caused each year by poor blind spot practice. Rear-view mirrors don’t always show everything in the vicinity of the truck, so drivers must also look over their shoulders and out of the window to see as much as possible before changing lanes. Apart from passengers and other drivers been cautious, truck drivers must always leave enough room around their vehicles when merging into traffic. 

• Always signal 

Failing to signal/indicate can potentially lead to collisions and unsafe roads. As trucks and trailers are large entities on the road, drivers need to make fellow road users aware of every lane change and manoeuvre to avoid accidents. 

• Minimize lane changes 

Many accidents occur during lane changes. Additionally, slow-moving large trucks cause traffic when overtaking or changing lanes. Drivers must always use the slow lane and remain in it when possible. If a lane change or merge is required, drivers must perform this slowly and decisively so that other vehicles can adjust their path.  

• 3-second rule 

To eliminate front and rear collisions, the 3-second rule is non-negotiable. It encourages drivers to maintain a 3-second distance behind the vehicle in front to avoid accidents. It gives drivers enough time to react to situations that might potentially cause a collision, such as sharp braking. In rainy conditions, the number should rise to 5 seconds, and when the roads are icy this should jump to 10 seconds.  

• Be prepared 

Many things can go wrong during long-distance hauls, such as flat tires, breakdowns, and accidents. Drivers need to be prepared for every possible emergency to handle these common situations when they occur. Keeping a first-aid kit, torch, and repair tools helps to respond quickly to emergencies. Also preparing a sufficient supply of water, blankets, and snacks will help when forced to pull over and wait hours for roadside assistance to arrive. 

• Stay calm 

Long hours hauling cargo takes its toll and in some cases manifests in drivers experiencing a bout of road rage. Road safety for all users comes under risk when anger trumps common sense, so drivers must always remain calm and focused when situations provoke. Drivers must not encourage road rage behavior among themselves or other road users. Keep a safe distance at all times and avoid unnecessary conflict. 

Safe parking and rest 

To ensure safe roads, drivers need to prioritize the amount of rest they get to remain alert. Long-distance hauling requires a lot of mental and physical energy, so drivers need to be aware of their alertness levels and rest sufficiently when needed. Choosing where to park is important not only for trailers but for drivers too as peace of mind gives them better sleep knowing their vehicle and cargo are safe.  

Drivers should search for facilities like TIP’s Secure Parking located in the North of France – rest and parking facilities offering 24/7 security, TAPA PSR1 certification, and a driver’s lounge where they can recharge before continuing their journey. 

Weather awareness 

Professional drivers always keep an eye on weather reports prior to departure so they can be aware of what is in store for their trip. Knowing what's ahead helps them remain prepared while adjusting their schedules. 

Maintenance  

The safety of drivers and fellow road users relies on the safety of the trucks and trailers themselves. If they are on the roads with any mechanical issues, it puts everyone in jeopardy of potential accidents. Therefore, drivers must create a preventative maintenance schedule to ensure all parts are functioning as they are meant to.  

In addition, pre-and post-trip inspections are crucial to ensure continuous road safety and early detection of issues. Drivers must be encouraged to take regular rest breaks to recharge their energy levels, and also to perform quick inspections throughout the trip.  

Stay safe and be prepared 

By following these important tips, drivers can ensure they are playing their part in maintaining reliable road safety measures. Drivers have a huge responsibility to keep themselves and others away from potential risks – and these tips will help them achieve this at all times. 

About TIP Used 

TIP Used is part of Europe’s leading truck and trailer leasing and rental provider TIP and operates in some of the biggest European markets, such as the UK, Germany, Denmark and France, and North America. With 55 years of experience, TIP Used is one of the largest suppliers of well-maintained second-hand trucks and trailers in the commercial vehicle sector, offering a variety of high-quality used trailers and trucks from its own fleet and the best brands in Europe, including Krone, Schmitz, SDC, Volvo, MAN and DAF. 

TIP Used makes buying a used trailer and/or second-hand truck very easy and quick providing the maintenance history of the equipment, as well as financing solutions and refurbishments upon request.   

Visit tip-used.com or contact one of our sales managers to learn more about the available stock in your region!