Safety is one of the top concerns in the transportation industry. From adherence to road safety regulations to following best practices guidelines, safety on the road is essential to ensure problem-free transportation of goods and passengers. Reviewing truck driver safety topics on a routine basis can help decrease accidents and ensure drivers are familiar with the latest safety rules and recommendations.

Weight Limits

Semi-trucks are authorized to carry limited loads based on the type of materials, the size of the trailer and the state regulations where the truck will transport goods. These weight regulations ensure transportation safety and the long-term usability of highways and roads. Truck drivers should know how to properly measure the weight of their loads, how to balance loads for safety and the procedures used to monitor weight limits by law enforcement personnel.

Bad Weather Conditions

Wind, heavy rains and stormy conditions pose extra safety threats for truck drivers. Poor weather increases the time required for trucks to stop on slick roads, can impede visibility and can cause the truck to sway erratically due to wind gusts. Truck drivers should know how to drive in rainy conditions, emergency procedures, when to stop driving due to danger and how to limit the impact of poor conditions on their driving.

Equipment Failure

Faulty breaks, light failure and air brake problems can all pose serious safety concerns for truck drivers. In-depth knowledge of emergency handling procedures for all types of equipment failure situations can help avoid accidents and potential injury. Truck drivers should be able to perform alternative stopping methods and evasive maneuvers, use emergency equipment such as a Jake brake and know how to call for assistance when their equipment fails.

Visibility

Truck drivers have limited visibility and often encounter situations where blind spots can cause safety concerns. The effect of blind spots can be minimized through proper mirror placement, strategic lane change procedures and advanced turning options. Truck drivers can avoid accidents with smaller vehicles traveling beside their truck by using their signals, by slowing down or speeding up to obtain a clear line of sight, and by planning for directional changes in advance.

Truck-Specific Limitations

Semi-trucks and trailers have special rules and limitation beyond the standard automobile. These limitations include state laws that limit where trucks can travel, the lanes they are able to use on interstates, truck-specific speed limits and in-city restrictions. New and seasoned truck drivers must understand the driving restrictions for every city and region in which they drive a truck.