Semi-Truck Accident Prevention

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  When it comes to semi-truck accidents, this couldn't be more true. 

Fortunately, there are many ways that semi-truck drivers can proactively prevent accidents, which we discuss below.

Do a Pre-Trip Inspection

It's wise to do a pre-trip inspection of your semi-truck before you start the work day. Check both the interior and exterior of the semi-truck for any potential safety hazards. This allows you to catch any problems before they become a safety risk on the highway.

Slow Is Steady, Steady Is Fast

It's tempting to want to reach your destination as quickly as possible. But rushing can lead to safety issues. Speeding in a semi-truck is dangerous, of course, but that's not the only area where speed can be problematic.

Avoid going too fast when entering the drop yard, leaving a truck stop, backing your semi-truck up, and other such situations where there could be other vehicles or pedestrians nearby. Slow and steady wins the race in these instances.

Don't Follow Too Closely

Tailgating is never a good idea, but it's particularly dangerous when you're driving a semi-truck. When you follow too closely, you don't give yourself enough time to react if the vehicle in front of you stops suddenly. 

In general, you should leave at least four seconds between your semi-truck and the vehicle in front of you. If the weather is bad or visibility is poor, give yourself even more space.

Keep Yourself Well-Rested

When you are well-rested, you will be better able to focus and safely drive your semi-truck.

It starts with good nights of sleep. Keep as consistent a sleeping schedule as possible and make sure you are getting enough sleep each night. When needed, take short naps at rest stops on the road. Try not to rely too much on caffeine given the possibility of a caffeine crash that makes you even more fatigued.

It's also important to stay hydrated. It's much harder to focus when we are dehydrated, so be sure to bring along enough water or sports drinks.

Finally, be sure you are well fed. Focus on healthier foods that will help keep your energy up. Fast food and other quick fixes are convenient, but the high amounts of salt and fats can lead to feeling sluggish and make it more difficult to focus.

Prepare Your Semi-Truck for a Collision

Consider upgrading your semi-truck with a custom aluminum bumper. In the event that you have a collision, such as hitting a deer, the aluminum bumper will provide better protection for your semi-truck. 

For more information or to get your custom semi-truck bumper started, contact the experts at Truck Defender Bumpers. Our dealership is located in Vale, South Dakota, and we proudly serve those throughout the United States.