The Hazards of Trucking

Truck drivers face occupational risks everyday while out on the open road. The long, irregular hours and tight delivery schedules can lead to stress, which, along with sitting for extended periods of time, takes its toll on the body. Not to mention, truckers face road hazards for large portions of each day. With that in mind, what hazards are specific to trucking and what can you do to minimize the risks?

Lethargy: About a third of trucking accidents involve a fatigued driver. Why? Skipping out on a good night of sleep makes you groggy, irritable and negatively impacts your reaction time. To avoid lethargic driving, plan your breaks into your delivery schedule to ensure that you can finish with enough time to get an adequate amount of rest at the end of your shift.
Injury: Loading, unloading and the transport of hazardous items (chemicals, very heavy items etc.) can lead to injuries. Sprains and strains are the most common injuries, but others can include fractures, inhalation of toxic fumes and an array of additional injuries. Always follow all safety procedures, including those that are specific to specialized cargo, and wear any necessary protective clothing when handling these tasks.
Accidents: Nearly a quarter of all trucking accidents involve a speeding driver. And, if the truck driver is at fault, the liability expenses can add up to exceed $1 million, particularly if the other driver files a lawsuit. All truck drivers should carry proof of insurance and follow the posted speed limits on roads and highways. It's also beneficial to slow down on highway entrance/exit ramps to avoid rollovers.
Poor weather: Rain, hail and other forms of bad weather provide additional hazards to truck drivers, but the deliveries must carry on. Slow your speed during poor weather conditions and brake well in advance to allow for extra stopping time. Running a bit late is much better than getting into an accident.
Maintenance: Trucks must undergo routine maintenance, along with any necessary repairs along the way. Keep a maintenance log of the work that’s been done and future maintenance needs.

Keep yourself and your truck safe. Call Heritage Insurance at (306) 693-7640 for more information on Moose Jaw trucking insurance.

No Comments