Ten tips for drivers

Ten Tips for Drivers

1. Stay out of no zones (blind spots)
   
   Other drivers may not be aware of the size of your truck's blind spots. Be vigilant in watching out for vehicles in the No-Zone.
   The No-Zone represents the danger areas, or blind spots, around trucks and buses where crashes are more likely to occur. One-third of all crashes between large trucks and cars take place in the No-Zone.
   
2. Know where you are headed (proper trip planning)
   
Have the routes you are taking mapped to make sure that there are no restrictions or low underpasses, and have an idea where your 10 hour break will need to be taken.

3. Log up – as you run your load.
   
Log your day as you run your day. Show safety inspections first, then hours to fuel stop. Allow 15 minutes for fueling. Make sure you remember to log as you do each step.

4. Know your driving distance between stops.
   
Use your atlas so you can find how much further your next stop location is.

5. Smith System
   
Keep your eyes moving (no fixed stares)
Aim high in steering (1/2 mile ahead of you)
Get the big picture (evaluate)
Leave yourself an out (leave space)
Make sure they see you (communicate)

6. Keep aware of fluid levels and tire pressure.
   
Check levels before starting your day. At the time of inspection many drivers forget to check air pressure in their tires causing poor ware and less fuel mileage.

7. Speed limit, bridge laws, weight limits.
Keep aware of posted speed limits and in construction zones. Where roads are uneven - drivers must be aware of their gross and bridge law limits.
8. Type of load. (stacked high) on pallets off pallets.
How's the product stacked in the trailer; All in the nose, double stacked, shrink wrapped, etc. Will or can it fall over?
9. Promote safety to yourself and others.
Buckle up for safety- save lives from being ejected from a vehicle. Drive slower in work zones and uneven roads. Uneven roads can throw you off balance. Keep your distance and avoid tail gating. Try to anticipate braking situations. Call in unsafe road conditions. Avoid aggressive driving.
10. Proper health. (balanced diet)
Eat well. Don't over eat- stay away from buffet style dinners. Park so you have to walk further. Remember hours of service violations are serious and can threaten your livelihood.