Commercial truck drivers have one of the most dangerous jobs in America. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were over 4,000 fatalities involving large trucks in 2016. That’s an average of more than 10 deaths each day! While some of these accidents are unavoidable, many are caused by driver error. In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers that truck drivers face on the road and how to stay safe while driving a commercial vehicle.
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What Are the Dangers That Truck Drivers Face on the Road?
There is no doubt that driving a commercial truck is a risky job. Some of the dangers that truck drivers face include:
Long Hours on the Road
Truck drivers often work long hours, which can lead to fatigue. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving was a factor in nearly one out of every five fatal crashes involving large trucks in 2016.
If you are a truck driver, getting plenty of rest before getting behind the wheel is important. If you feel tired while driving, pull over and take a nap. It is also a good idea to avoid driving at night if possible.
Distractions
Another danger that truck drivers face is distractions. With the rise of technology, there are more opportunities for distraction than ever before. For example, many truck drivers use a GPS system to help them navigate. However, if you are constantly looking at your GPS, you may not be paying attention to the road.
It is important to limit distractions while driving and only use devices when it is safe. If you need to use a GPS system, pull over to a rest stop before inputting your destination. This way, you can give your full attention to the road.
Reckless Drivers
Another danger that truck drivers face are reckless drivers. While most drivers follow the rules of the road, there are some who do not. These reckless drivers often cut off trucks, tailgate, or make sudden lane changes. This can be very dangerous for a truck driver.
If you encounter a reckless driver on the road, the best thing to do is to stay calm and try to get out of their way. Do not engage with the driver and do not retaliate.
What Are Some Tips for Staying Safe on the Road?
There are some things that you can do to stay safe on the road, even if you are a truck driver. Some tips for staying safe include:
Always Wear Your Seatbelt
A lot of truck drivers neglect to wear their seatbelts, but this is one of the best ways to stay safe on the road. According to the NHTSA, more than half of all truck drivers who were killed in crashes in 2016 were not wearing a seatbelt.
If you are a truck driver, always make sure to buckle up before hitting the road. It could save your life.
Inspect Your Truck Before Driving
Another way to stay safe on the road is to inspect your truck before driving. This means checking your tires, brakes, and mirrors to make sure everything is in working order. You should also check your blind spots before changing lanes.
By inspecting your truck before driving, you can avoid accidents caused by mechanical problems.
Obey the Speed Limit
The speed limit is there for a reason. Obeying the speed limit not only keeps you safe but also helps to prevent accidents. Speeding is one of the most common causes of truck accidents.
If you are driving a commercial truck, be sure to obey the speed limit. This will help to keep you and others safe on the road.
Do Not Drink and Drive
Drinking and driving is something that all truck drivers must avoid at all costs. This is because alcohol impairs your judgment and slows down your reflexes. If you are caught drinking and driving, you could lose your license or even go to jail.
You must also avoid using drugs while driving. Many truck drivers use prescription drugs to help them stay awake on long trips. However, these drugs can also impair your ability to drive. If you are taking medication, be sure to check with your doctor before driving.
Pay Attention to the Road and Do Not Text or Use Other Devices While Driving
Texting or using other devices while driving is one of the most dangerous things that you can do. This is because it takes your attention away from the road. If you need to use your phone, pull over to a rest stop or turn off your phone before getting behind the wheel.
By following these tips, you can help to keep yourself safe on the road. Truck driving is a dangerous job, but by being cautious, you can help to avoid accidents.
Is It Hard To Drive a Truck?
Since trucks are very big and have a lot of blind spots, it can be hard to drive them. It would help if you were extra careful when changing lanes and turning. You also need to pay attention to the road at all times.
If you are thinking about becoming a truck driver, make sure you are prepared for the challenge. It takes skill and practice to become a good truck driver. But if you are up for the challenge, it can be a very rewarding career.
Does Truck Maintenance Help Keep Truckers Safe?
Yes, truck maintenance is very important for truckers. By keeping your truck in good working order, you can help to avoid accidents. Be sure to have your truck serviced regularly and fix any problems.
You should also create a safe driving plan. This plan should include things like obeying the speed limit, avoiding distracted driving, and staying rested. By following a safe driving plan, you can help to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Conclusion
Driving a truck is not for the faint of heart. It requires long hours, concentration, and a willingness to work in all kinds of weather conditions. But it can be rewarding, both financially and emotionally. So if you’re thinking about becoming a truck driver, do your research and make sure you’re prepared for the challenges ahead.
