Working as a truck driver comes with immense benefits.
First, truckers are among the highest-paid employees in the transport industry. Truck drivers earn an average salary of $63,000 annually, or around $30 per hour. That’s considerably higher than regular bus drivers, who make around $20 per hour.
Working as a truck driver also provides a golden opportunity to travel to multiple destinations and meet new people. That’s especially true for interstate truckers.
Moreover, many people are drawn to truck driving for its flexibility and independence. Truckers don’t have to deal with grumpy bosses, at least not every day of the week.
Despite the numerous perks, truck driving isn’t without its risks. Most of these hazards threaten the driver’s personal, vehicular, or both safety.
The surest way to overcome the perils of truck driving is to beware of them. And that’s where we come in.
We’ve prepared a rundown of the latest and most practical safety measures every truck driver should know in 2024.
1. Stay Informed
Many seasoned truck drivers can vouch for the truth in the age-old adage, “Information is power.” Staying informed before your trips is critical to the success of each shipment.
Invest in news truck driver resources that keep you in the loop on the prevailing weather conditions in your shipment destinations. Having prior knowledge of adverse weather can help you change routes and save time.
Keeping informed on the current happenings in the trucking industry also helps you stay ahead of emerging policy and legal changes.
2. Integrate a Trucker App Into Your Telematics
Trucking apps are a step up from conventional trucking news outlets. This software lets you access useful information, including weather updates, in real time.
There’s a plethora of options to pick from, depending on your needs. Some trucking software provides specialized services, while others let you monitor several parameters.
Besides weather updates, you can use a trucking application to locate the next gas station, compare and lock in fuel prices, find diners, secure parking lots, etc. The limit is only your imagination.
3. Obey the Weather
It’s not enough to know the weather forecasts in your destinations of interest. You should also equip yourself adequately for any adverse conditions.
Ideally, your response will depend on the type of update.
Reducing your driving speed and using fog lights might help you brave heavy downpours. But if the predictions foretell violent storms, it’s safer to avoid the roads altogether.
4. Use A GPS Device
GPS devices have been around for several decades and have continually acquired additional utility. Trucking is one industry that relies heavily on GPS systems.
Most trucking companies use GPS devices for route mapping. These gadgets can help fleet managers pinpoint the location of their trucks, making them crucial recovery tools in the event of theft or medical emergencies.
Besides, insights from GPS devices can help truckers avoid blocked or gridlocked sections of the roads, enhancing speedy shipment delivery.
4. Schedule Routine Vehicular Maintenance
Any functional vehicle deserves routine maintenance. That’s especially true for long-distance trucks.
Get your truck examined thoroughly before embarking on any trip. The inspection should focus on all critical aspects of the vehicle’s performance, including the engine, brake system, tires and wheels, and the lighting system.
It’s also prudent to always have the requisite spare parts. This helps you get back on your wheels if a breakdown occurs in the middle of nowhere.
5. Invest In a Dash Cam
Dash cams have caught some of the weirdest things recently, from unexpected car crashes to high-speed wildlife chases and even potentially paranormal activities.
That only lends credence to their significance.
As a truck driver, installing your dashboard with a camera helps determine the at-fault party when an accident occurs. It’s a solid way to protect yourself from unjust liability.
6. Get Adequate Sleep
When working as a truck driver (or any other driver), your eyes are your biggest asset. It only takes a few seconds of shut eyes for your truck to veer off the road or smash into other vehicles in front.
Depending on your current driving speed, the consequences can be ineffably grim. That underscores the significance of adequate sleep.
According to the Sleep Foundation, adults require 7 – 9 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night or every 24 hours, depending on their shift. Taking occasional breaks to take a nap can also improve circadian rhythms and reduce sleep-related accidents.
7. Moderate Your Driving Speed and Drive Defensively
The excitement of exploring new destinations and delivering your shipment on time might cause you to put the pedal to the metal. But that could also amount to signing your death sentence, especially considering the sheer size of your vehicle.
Resist the urge to speed even if your truck is installed with a generous speed governor. It’s also wise to practice various defensive driving habits.
Ensure you’re constantly aware of your surroundings. Pay particular attention to your blind spots, including the sections directly behind you, towards the passenger side, and at least 15 feet in front.
Wrap Up
Truck driving remains an in-demand sector in the transportation industry despite the numerous occupational hazards. As with any job, the trick is approaching each day with a renewed sense of purpose and diligence. And where is the best place to start than by practicing the above-listed trucking safety measures?
