What Often Causes Accidents When Driving a Truck?
Truck driving is an important segment of the transport and business industries. The long trips taken by truck drivers have facilitated the delivery of goods to, within and beyond countries. However, this job comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to safety. This is why driving safely is a top priority for you because truck accidents are often fatal when they occur. An understanding of some of the things that regularly cause truck accidents will go a long way in helping you prevent them. If you've just started out in the industry, here are some of the things that often cause truck accidents and what you can do to avoid them:
Improper Configuration of the Load You Are Transporting
Trucks carry heavy goods some of which weigh in at more than a tonne. The load must be properly fastened and configured on the truck otherwise it will cause an imbalance and elevate the risk of a top over when you are navigating corners and bends. Ideally, work closely with your loading personnel when configuring the load because your driving experience will give you a better understanding of your truck's balancing needs. To add on that, inspect all the load fasteners (such as bolts and chains) before embarking on the delivery trip. Replace any fasteners that are worn out or corroded with rust. The tension can make them snap and release the load when you are in full flight.
Driver Error
While its impractical to eliminate all the errors while driving, there are a few things you can do to keep make the rare ales fatal. First, get enough rest. Schedule your trip properly and have enough time to sleep for more than six hours. Inadequate rest is the perfect condition for fatigue, causing a lapse in concentration when you are driving. If you do not focus, then you are likely to make a mistake such as tailgating other motorists. Besides adequate rest, have a few sweets or sugary stuff with you in the truck for an occasional taste of sugar when you are driving. It will help you keep the focus by maintaining the right levels of blood sugar.
Equipment Failure
Some accidents can occur simply because you failed to check your truck before setting off. Inspect the tyres for wear, puncture and low pressure. Check your brake pads for cracks or too much wear and test the reverse detection system to make sure that it is in good order and that you won't jeopardise the safety of other road users.
For more information, contact companies like All Onsite Training and Assessment, which can help reduce the risks of accidents.
