Driver safety is an essential topic for all truck drivers in the industry to understand and support, especially because driving trucks is their job.
In Utah, over 40 fatal accidents involving commercial trucks happen every year. By incorporating safe driving behaviors, your well-being and the protection of those driving around you will greatly improve.
Today, we are sharing five tips that all truck operators should implement to stay safe on Utah’s roads.
1. Focus on the Road
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents in the United States. In 2019 alone, this resulted in the loss of 3,142 lives and contributed to 9 percent of all fatal crashes. Especially when driving a semi-truck, any distraction could be a fatal mistake.
To stay safe on Utah’s roads, truck drivers must be extra vigilant about avoiding distractions while behind the wheel. Here are a few tips you should focus on:
- Put your phone away
- Don’t drive tired
- Set up music, car mirrors, and GPS directions before hitting the road
- Avoid eating or drinking while the vehicle is in motion
- Keep your eyes on the road at all times and pull over if this is not achievable
2. Mind Your Truck’s Space Cushion
Your truck’s significant height and weight can be a major hazard if you are not careful. Always make sure that there is an adequate space cushion around all sides of your vehicle to prevent collisions. In addition, it is critical to know your blind spots and be mindful of them as you travel. When in doubt, stay put in your lane.
3. Never Drive Impaired
While it may sound obvious, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Not only is this a hazard for any driver, but it is especially harmful to commercial drivers to handle such a large vehicle without being fully present. When you combine an 80,000-pound semi-truck with alcohol or other substances, the results can be deadly.
4. Always Buckle Up
Studies show that roughly 1 in 6 truck operators admit to not wearing a seat belt during every trip. With over 3.5 million truck drivers in the U.S., this equates to over 580,000 operators. Not only could buckling up save your life, but it is also the law. Making that two-second decision can prevent serious injuries or death by averting ejection and protecting your brain and spinal cord.
5. Cover and Secure Loads Properly
Truck drivers are responsible for delivering their goods safely and securely. To ensure that your loads make it to their destination on time, it is essential to cover and secure cargo properly. This type of preparation will also help keep roads free from litter and debris. Each time you stop on the way to your destination, check to make sure everything is still secure.
Receive Help After a Truck Accident with Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton
Truck drivers have an indispensable responsibility to practice caution and safety on the road. If you or someone you love has been involved in a truck accident, the attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton are here to help. Our team has spent over 25 years assisting Utah citizens after vehicle collisions, and we are eager to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Our offices are located in Saratoga Springs, West Jordan, and Provo, Utah. Connect with us to receive your free case evaluation today.