Reducing Risk When Driving a Truck

As with driving any vehicle for business, employees who are responsible for driving a truck can face various aspects of risk in their daily work lives. It is imperative that, for their own safety and that of other road users, action is taken to reduce as much risk as possible. 

Trucks are larger than the average vehicle and, therefore, their ability to do damage can be greater. Even with risk assessments and measures taken, there are still many variables that can increase the risk level, such as the behaviors of others on the road. If an incident does occur, you might want to speak to a truck accident lawyer (LA) for more info. 

As part of preventative measures, here are some of the things you can do to minimize your risk on the road.

Daily Walk Arounds

Checking your truck for any vandalism, damage, or threats as part of your daily walk around can be crucial to ensuring your safety. Any damage or vandalism can potentially cause accidents or problems for yourself and others, as well as to limit your level of control on the vehicle. 

Likewise, threats can also be a possibility. Evidence of attempted theft or terrorist targeting could potentially be found during these checks. For those who live near a land border, checking the undercarriage of your vehicle thoroughly can also help to prevent any illegal stowaways. 

Use Secure Rest Stops

Using secure rest stops can help keep you safe, as well as your vehicle. Ideally, designated, and pre-bookable, truck parking is your best option, however, this may not always be feasible. If necessary, using an official service station or a well-lit parking area with CCTV is the second best option.

Rest stops are also vital due to driving time laws, as well as to generally ensure you are awake and alert enough to drive safely. Tiredness and lack of concentration are two of the biggest contributing factors to road traffic accidents, so your focus levels need to be monitored at all times. Regardless of a time aspect associated with delivery or collection, it is always better to stop your vehicle until you feel safe to drive, than to persevere and become a risk to others.

Complete Training

It is always a good idea to keep your knowledge up to date. This can also help you stay informed on the latest safety aspects regarding truck laws. This training can provide you with the tools and know-how you need to be able to make informed risk assessments regarding situations, as well as what to do if you feel something is unsafe.

Overall, it is every driver’s responsibility while on the road to attempt to lower their risk as much as possible. While there is no such thing as no risk, implementing strategies, as well as following company policies and procedures, can make a big difference to the safety of all.