Trucking accidents are one of the biggest dangers that truck drivers face, with at least 500,000 trucking accidents occurring each year. As the driver of a truck, you are responsible for ensuring the safety of yourself, your passengers, and fellow drivers.

If you are a linehaul driver, safety is one of the most important things you would want to spend your resources on. Having proper safety equipment and training is key to ensuring your security. Fortunately, this piece on how to be safe in the linehaul discusses the most important tips for reducing the likelihood of accidents and fatalities on the highway.

1. Don’t Drive Unrested: Do not drive when tired or ill. If you feel sleepy, have a headache, or are feeling any other kind of discomfort, you should pull over by the side of the road and get some rest. If you cannot do that, you should call your dispatcher for a ride home.

2. Keep Your Vehicle Well-Maintained: Your vehicle should regularly be maintained by a mechanic. This ensures that your brakes, steering, and suspension are in top condition so that you can handle the road’s rigors without getting into an accident.

3. Be Vigilant at All Times: Always pay attention to the road and traffic around you. Do not text or talk while driving. Keep your focus on the road and be aware of what is happening around you.

4. Avoid Speeding in Work Zones: If you are speeding, you are putting yourself and others at risk. You will likely be fined and even lose your license if you are caught speeding. You should also know that you may face legal consequences if you cause an accident.

5. Never Drink and Drive: If you are drinking alcohol, make sure that you do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle. If you are intoxicated, your driving skills will be impaired. This can cause accidents that could result in serious injuries or even death.

6. Always Signal Before Turning: When you are turning, you should signal your intention to the driver of the vehicle behind you. This will ensure that everyone is aware of your intention to turn and that it is safe for them to continue on their way.

5. Use the Right Lane: When you are merging into a lane, you should use the right lane. This ensures that you are visible to other drivers and allows you to safely enter the lane without being cut off by other vehicles.

7. Avoid Driving During the Night: Driving at night can be dangerous because it is harder to see and you can become distracted by things like your phone or music. You should not drive at night unless it is necessary.

8. Be Careful of Road Conditions: If you are driving in bad weather conditions, make sure to be aware of any road hazards. This can include potholes, ice, rain, or snow. Furthermore, you are driving over a bridge; you should slow down and pay attention to the road. The speed limit on bridges may be different than the speed limit on roads. Be sure to obey all speed limits on bridges.

Over to You:

Although you must take care of all the safety tips mentioned above, do not forget to invest in an insurance policy for truckers. This will ensure you are protected in case there is an accident or loss of income. Feel free to get in touch with experts at Paradiso by calling 860-684-5270 to get a personalized plan.