Truck drivers are tasked with transporting goods across the country. Becoming a truck driver can be an exciting and rewarding career path, but candidates need to be aware of the risks that the job entails. Different types of trucks, like flatbed, tanker, pickup, refrigerated, and dump trucks, require different skills and knowledge to operate them safely. Here are ten common mistakes that rookie truck drivers can avoid.
Not inspecting the truck properly
One of truck drivers’ most common mistakes is not correctly inspecting their vehicle before hitting the road. Therefore, a thorough pre-trip inspection is critical for ensuring the truck is in good working order and safe to drive. This inspection should include checking the brakes, tires, lights, and other essential components, which helps to prevent accidents and breakdowns that can result in costly delays—drivers who neglect to do this risk putting themselves and other drivers on the road in danger.
Not getting enough rest
Driving a truck for long hours can be exhausting, and drivers must get enough rest to avoid fatigue. Fatigue can impair judgment, reaction time, and attention to detail, all critical for safe driving. Unfortunately, some truck drivers push themselves too hard to meet deadlines or maximize their earning potential. This can lead to dangerous situations, such as falling asleep at the wheel or being unable to react quickly enough to avoid an accident.
Speeding
Speeding may seem like an excellent way to reach a destination faster, but it significantly increases the risk of accidents. Truck drivers need to be aware of the speed limits in their driving areas and adjust their speed accordingly. Failure to do so can result in costly fines, points on their license, and even job loss. Similarly, distracted driving is another serious hazard. Distractions like cell phones, food, or even daydreaming can take a driver’s focus away from the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
Overloading the truck
Trucks have varying cargo or load capacities, from one ton to half or three-quarters. Overloading the truck and exceeding the stated cargo capacity puts strain on its metal frame and mechanical parts like the suspension and brakes. Also, it decreases the driver’s ability to control the truck and might result in tire blowouts.
Not securing cargo properly
Unsecured cargo can cause the truck to become unbalanced and even tip over. Similarly, truck drivers need to use appropriate securing methods such as bungee cords, ratchet straps, cargo nets, or tarps. Old worn-out, or brittle ropes may snap and release the cargo. Frequent travelers are also advised to invest in cargo-securing equipment like truck racks, rear bars, toolboxes, non-skid bed liners, and side rails.
Not distributing cargo weight properly
Distributing the weight of the cargo evenly throughout the trailer helps to ensure that the truck remains stable and balanced while driving and during steep turns. Placing heavy loads at the back may affect the driver’s control. Therefore, putting the heavier load closer to the cabin is advisable. However, uneven weight distribution may lead to tire, wheel, axle, or structural failure.
Overlooking the trailer length
Another common mistake rookie truck drivers make is overlooking the length of their trailers. Driving a more extended trailer requires different driving techniques than a shorter trailer, such as allowing for a greater turning radius and paying close attention to low-clearance areas. Drivers must also know the extra length when changing lanes or merging on the highway. Overlooking the trailer length can cause the truck to collide with other vehicles or structures, resulting in serious accidents.
Fuelling up at the last minute
Fueling up at the wrong time is another mistake rookie truck drivers make. Waiting until the fuel tank is almost empty or not planning fuel stops can cause unnecessary delays and even run the risk of running out of fuel on the road. Drivers need to plan their fuel stops ahead of time and fill up when the fuel gauge shows a quarter tank to avoid running out of fuel in the middle of a trip. Additionally, fueling up at peak times, such as during rush hour, can lead to long wait times at gas stations and delays in delivery schedules.
Conclusion
Marten Trucking or Marten Transport Ltd. is an established transportation company that offers a range of jobs and perks for truck drivers, including retirement plans, insurance, and health benefits. Having positions for both solo and team drivers, Marten Trucking may be worth considering owing to their competitive pay, benefits packages, and opportunities for career advancement.