Safe Driving Habits Every Commercial Truck Driver Should Have

COMMERCIAL truck drivers have a huge responsibility when they get behind the wheel. Not only are they responsible for their own safety, but they also need to be aware of the safety of other drivers on the road. Trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, so they need to be driven with extra care. Here are some safe driving tips that every commercial truck driver should follow:

Drive defensively: This means being aware of other drivers on the road and being prepared for anything that might happen. Always use your turn signals, give yourself plenty of space to stop, and never tailgate.

Follow the speed limit: It can be tempting to speed when you’re on the open road, but it’s important to obey the posted speed limits. Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents, so it’s best to just stick to the limit. Approximately 25 percent of commercial truck accidents are caused by speeding.

Use GPS to guide you: GPS can be a great tool for commercial truck drivers. It can help you avoid traffic, find the best routes, and even plan your rest stops.

Don’t drive if you’re tired: Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. If you start to feel tired, pull over and take a nap. It’s better to arrive late than not at all.

Get plenty of rest: It’s important to be well-rested before getting behind the wheel of a commercial truck. Driving when you’re tired can lead to accidents, so make sure to get enough sleep before hitting the road.

Implement GPS tracking: GPS tracking is a must for any fleet manager who wants to optimize fleet operations. GPS tracking systems provide real-time visibility into fleet activity, allowing you to see where vehicles are at all times and track things like speed, idling time, and mileage. You can find out more about all the futures of GPS tracking at Tracking Fox. This data can be used to improve fleet operations in a number of ways, from reducing fuel costs to improving driver safety.

Inspect your vehicle: Before each trip, it’s essential to do a thorough inspection of your commercial truck. This includes checking the tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. By doing this, you can help avoid any potential problems while on the road.

Don’t party before driving: It’s important to stay sober when operating a commercial truck. Drinking alcohol or taking drugs before driving is illegal and can lead to accidents. If you need to party, make sure to do it after your shift.

By following these safe driving tips, commercial truck drivers can help make the roads a safer place for everyone. Fleet managers can also play a role in promoting safety by investing in fleet management software and GPS tracking devices, like the ones from GPSWOX. These tools can help monitor driver behavior and plan routes accordingly.

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