Million Mile Truckers Speak Out On Safe Driving

The summer is a time of travel. Highways become packed with vacationers heading out for a good time or trying to hang on the last thread of fun before going back to work. As a truck driver, more vehicles on the road mean more risk on the road. It is important to stay safe, and to help truckers throughout the nation be as safe as possible, the ATA has gathered a few million mile, accident-free truck drivers, known as America’s Road Team Captains, to provide some pointers.

“The first step of safety,” the Captains say. “Begins in your driveway.” Before setting out for a long trip, check your truck to make sure it is up to the task. Check the wipers, your fluids, and your radiator and cooling system. It might be a good idea to get your radiator and cooling system serviced before setting out if it has been a while.

The next step to take is checking your tires. If your tires are properly inflated, you can save up to 4% in fuel mileage.  Driving the speed limit will also save fuel, while also keeping you safe. Don’t be in a hurry to get in a wreck.

Always, always be aware of blind spots; yours and others. Keeping food and water in your truck is one safety practice that many drivers do not think about. If you get stuck in a stand still while under the blazing sun, it is easy to get dehydrated and tired. Water will help keep you hydrated and the food will give you the nutrients you need to stay alert.

It only takes one second to cause an accident. Distracted driving is the cause of more than 50% of crashes in the US. Put your cell phones away and watch the road. Honoring the right of way is another safety procedure that is often ignored. Don’t cut other vehicles off; always keep in mind that highway traffic does not have to yield to those on entrance ramps.

Being a courteous driver is one more step to staying safe. Allow other cars space in front of you and let some vehicles merge into your lane. Help where you can, but remember you do not have to stop for every stranded driver you see. Sometimes it is unsafe to pull over and assist someone. In such circumstances you can use your radio to contact the police and inform them of the situation.

Safe driving should be on the top of every truck driver’s list. Taking risks and going as fast as you can not only endangers yourself, but those drivers around you as well. Please remember to drive safe and save a life.
To view a full account of the America’s Road Team Captains’ safety tips visit http://www.truckline.com/pages/article.aspx?id=904%2F{8E1C7279-ED27-4C03-B189-CEEEE26BBB12}.