9 common mistakes truck drivers should avoid

9 common mistakes truck drivers should avoid

Truck driving is a physically taxing job. Truck drivers may make some typical mistakes due to their continuous driving and constant presence on the road, which could be hazardous for them and other road users. These mistakes can be expensive for trucking businesses, but more crucially, they put the driver at serious risk of harm. This article will discuss typical errors that truck drivers make and suggestions for avoiding them.

Overspeeding
Speed limits are not suggestions. They are laws. Speed restrictions should always be followed to keep everyone safe and avoid mishaps. Be mindful of the truck’s speed while navigating motorway curves or city streets. The imposed speed restriction can be affected by whether there is road maintenance nearby or other vehicles parked on both sides of the route, which could reduce visibility. And again, always obey driving laws.

Ignoring traffic signs
There is a reason for traffic signage. Even though these signs are designed to keep you safe, and on the right track, truck drivers often tend to overlook or pay less attention to them. Unfortunately, disobeying traffic signs is one of the most common blunders truck drivers make. The worst sign a truck driver can ignore is the clearance sign. If the sign says the ruck won’t fit, it won’t. Still, many drivers try their luck and get stuck.

Not communicating with the operations manager
If you run into a problem on the road, always contact your operations manager for assistance. They, like you, are crucial to the trucking company you work for, and they are responsible for assisting and supplying you with all you require to complete your job safely. Remember the following:

Speak gently and precisely to ensure that they understand what you require.
Inquire about anything you need clarification with.
Let them know if there is a problem on the road ahead of you, such as an accident or unexpected weather, so they can plan for anticipated traffic delays and aid you in safely managing the issue.

Not preparing yourself for the challenges ahead
Although truck driving is physically demanding, truck drivers should be aware of potential sources of stress and how to manage or avoid them. Truck driving can be a physically, mentally, and emotionally stressful activity. Driving for long periods can be physically draining, especially if you are not well-rested or fed before your shift. When driving conditions are less than ideal, terrible weather or traffic congestion can cause annoyance, wrath, and distraction. Regardless of what’s going on in your personal life, speaking condescendingly, haughtily, or disparagingly to other truck drivers produces unnecessary arguments and influences everyone involved. Warrior Logistics’ core beliefs include treating everyone with honesty, responsibility, and professionalism.

Burnout
Truck driving is a taxing activity. You must be physically and emotionally prepared for it. To stay in peak shape, you must get enough sleep, eat right, and care for your body. Also, one must avoid driving if one is feeling under the weather. Your safety should always come first; if you work for a trucking company, it will also be their top priority.

Not employing semi-truck roadside assistance in an emergency
Whether you’re a colossal truck owner-operator or part of a fleet, you deserve support if things go wrong. It would help if you had a roadside help package in case of an accident, a dead battery, running out of gas, or mechanical problems. When you need a tow or a tire replacement, commercial trucks’ roadside assistance programs may be available 24 hours a day. They may even show up to give assistance if you are in an accident or to help you get into your cab if you find yourself locked out.

Not maintaining positive communication with dispatchers or shippers/receivers
Be courteous and professional when dealing with your dispatcher, driver management (DM), and shippers or receivers. Even though none sign your paycheck, all these people implicitly manage your workload.

Panicking about lane changes
If you need to change lanes, do it as soon as possible and with enough space. Otherwise, it’s usually better to wait. Switching into the passing lane may be frightening for you and incoming vehicles if there isn’t enough space for everyone. You might get stranded behind a Sunday driver doing ten miles per hour with their indicator on.

Ignoring the trailer
It may appear ridiculous, but people frequently forget that they are trailed by a caravan at least 28 feet long. In addition, new truck drivers are more likely to underestimate turning distances or movements because they need to be more experienced with the size of their trailer. Before turning, examine your blind spots and give yourself enough room. Of course, everyone will honk at you as you cross an intersection, but it won’t enrage them as much as a caravan running into their broadside.

These are nine mistakes that rookie drivers typically make because they may be lacking in the second category. Fortunately, many unfavorable circumstances may be avoided with quick thought and information. When you contact us today, you can learn more about your semi-truck roadside support services options. Be cautious out there, and make sure you have a backup plan! We’ll see you out there, partner.

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