I'm a big fan of check lists and being prepared. Call me crazy, but I like for life to be as smooth and efficient as possible. Sometimes things happen that we can't predict or control, but if it can be predicted or controlled, then I try to be on it!
Here's a few easy trucker safety tips to mark off your list next time you're heading out to drive! (These tips can be modified and applied to ALL drivers to ensure safety for everyone on the road.)
Stay Fit, Not Fatigued
Keeping your body and mind in good working condition is the
first, and possibly most important, step for maintaining trucking safety. Being
under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair your judgement and driving
skills. Eating healthy snacks and drinking plenty of water throughout the day and getting adequate sleep each night can help you to stay feeling in tip-top shape!
Have a Truck Check-up
Start at the front and give your truck a good look over all
the way around. Checking the windows, lights, wipers, brakes, tires, and any
extra equipment you may have on board is an easy way to ensure your vehicle is
in good working order. Having your truck inspected by a trusted professional
routinely can also help provide another layer of protection.
Check the Cargo
Is everything secured and properly distributed? Sometimes
this is up to whoever loads the truck and sometimes it’s up to you. Sometimes cargo
may need to be redistributed and secured again, which is especially true when
there’s a stop-off and there’s unloading done before more cargo is delivered.
Checking the trailer for holes, rust, and leaks is also important when it comes
to protecting yourself and your cargo.
Documents and Devices
Making sure you have all the proper documentation in your truck
can save you lots of time and trouble later. There’s no frustration like not
having the correct documents and paperwork you need. Do you have to drive back
and get it, stop somewhere and find a fax machine for someone to send it to you,
digging through your laptop and finding somewhere to print it out. Some documentation is legally required
depending on your load, state, etc. Have a designated spot in your truck for
all your needed documents and remember to check it before you leave for
everything you might need.
Look Ahead
If only we could see into the future for what was in store…
oh, wait, I think there’s an app for that. Okay, maybe you can’t see everything
in the future, but when it comes to weather and road conditions there are apps
like AccuWeather and Weather Underground for weather and WAZE and Google maps
for road conditions to help you out. It’s better to beat the weather and
traffic than be stuck in it when you can. Of course, things can still happen
that are not reported or happen all of a sudden, but knowing what you can
certainly help!
Chris and Bess have two beautiful children.
