THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2014
 Trucking is high on the list of dangerous occupations, and because of that, it’s important for truckers to follow safety precautions at all times. The following list details some of these precautions:
- Rest: Staying awake for 18 hours has similar effects to a blood alcohol level of .08 percent. It’s vital to take breaks and get enough sleep. Be sure to stretch and/or walk around during breaks for improved alertness.
- Buckle up: Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective safety precaution any driver can practice. Seat belts prevent drivers from being ejected from the truck, which allows you to stay in control of the vehicle.
- Leave space: Leave adequate follow space between your truck and the vehicle ahead of you. Big rigs require longer stopping distances than personal vehicles and any rear-ending type of collisions generally result in the rear vehicle being held liable.
- Weather: Inclement weather conditions result in approximately 25 percent of large truck fatalities. Truckers should reduce their speed by at least one-third in the rain and snow.
- No-zone: A truck’s blind spots, commonly called no-zones, may not be familiar to other drivers. Truckers must be vigilant in watching for cars in the no-zone.
- Hold that call: Talking on a cell phone while driving can reduce brain activity associated with the task of driving by 37 percent. Hold all calls until you reach a rest stop, or, if you must answer a call, do so using a Bluetooth headset.
- Secure cargo: Securing cargo is just as important as making on-time deliveries. Improperly secured cargo can lead to accidents, damaged or lost goods, bodily injury or even rollovers if cargo is able to shift.
- Dock safety: Always use a ramp or dock plate to bridge the opening between the dock and the truck to avoid injuries to your feet and legs.
- Maintenance: Just as with a personal vehicle, big rigs need routine maintenance. Trucks should be inspected before each trip, particularly the brakes. Have any problems repaired immediately.
Stay safe during long drives down the open road. Call Heritage Insurance at (306) 693-7640 for more information on Moose Jaw trucking insurance.
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