Accident Prevention Tips for Semi-Truck Drivers

There are proactive strategies that commercial truck drivers can use to reduce the risk of an accident. Read on to learn more!

Conduct a Pre-Trip Inspection

Before you begin your journey, be sure to do a pre-trip inspection. This involves looking over your semi-truck's various parts and systems, making sure that everything is in good working order. 

After all, it's much better to uncover a problem now than on the highway!

Drive Slowly In High-Risk Areas

Lower your speed whenever you are driving in areas full of pedestrians and other vehicles. For example, go slowly when entering the drop yard or exiting a truck stop. 

Driving at a lower speed will give you more time to react to a sudden obstacle and hit the brakes, which reduces the chances of a collision.

Leave Enough Space Between Your Semi-Truck and Other Vehicles

Try to leave at least four seconds of following time between your commercial truck and the vehicle ahead of you. If they suddenly slam on their brakes, you will have more time to react accordingly.

If the driving conditions are bad, you will want to leave even more space between your semi-truck and others. For example, leave more space if there's low visibility due to fog.

Make Sure You Are Well-Rested

A key part of safe commercial truck driving is staying alert. Set yourself up for success by getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating healthy food. Taking care of your body will help you stay focused and help promote a safer drive.

For more safety tips or to explore semi-trucks for sale, visit Empire Truck Sales. We have dealerships throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, and Alabama.