Workplace safety is a big issue in the USA, even if your workplace happens to be on the highway. The shipping industry leans heavily on highway transportation and has a vested interest in keeping drivers safe. Unsafe driving practices can have a big impact on shipping costs. Protect your bottom line by following these 5 truck safety tips. Click To Tweet
Truck Safety
Truck safety isn’t just a priority to the drivers, but to carriers, truckload management companies and customers. Enhanced safety measures ensure that drivers are safe, shipments are secure and costly delays are eliminated.
- Embrace Technology
- Check Your Attitude
- Be Alert
- Inspect Your Rig
- Take Breaks
1) Embrace Technology
Tech solutions for truck drivers can help improve safety, communication and analytics. These tools are all a means to improve driver retention, by hopefully making your job easier. GPS designed for truckers will show vital information such as which exit to take, when to change lanes, traffic reports etc. This information will be transmitted to your carrier, eliminating the need to check in constantly or explain delays.
2) Check Your Attitude
95% of accidents are the result of driver actions and attitudes, rather than driving skill. Aggressive driving, road rage, and general carelessness can have very real consequences.
3) Be Alert
Keep an eye on everything going on around you. When rolling down the highway, especially in heavy traffic, always be aware of who’s in front of you, beside you and behind you. Keep plenty of space between your rig and those in front of you, and change lanes as little as possible.
4) Inspect Your Rig
Before you even hit the road, conduct a pre-trip inspection according to Federal and State regulations. It is a thorough check of the semi truck, trailer and load, to ensure that everything is operating correctly, prior to your departure. Check the tires, brakes, fluids, lights, interior and body. Any damage or issues needing attention should be addressed before departure.
5) Take Breaks
Stay cognizant of your fatigue level after many hours of nonstop driving. “Accidents can be best avoided by recognizing the fact that driving a commercial or personal vehicle is a full-time endeavor,” says Gomez. “Inattentiveness is the most dangerous, and sadly the most prevalent, cause of accidents.”
Unloading Shipments
Whenever possible, use mechanized equipment, (like forklifts and lift-gates) when loading or unloading trailers. Not only does it keep the items more secure, but it keeps you safe from injury.
Getting the Job Done Right
It’s not enough to get a shipment from A to B if your truck is damaged or you get into an accident along the way. Smart truck safety will ensure you always get the job done right, enhancing your professional reputation and improving your bottom line!
Contact Us to find out how we work with the best carriers to get your shipment to you, safely.
