Professional driver safety guide

Truckers and cargo carriers can keep themselves and others safe by practicing the following safety tips.

Vehicle checks

• Always check night lighting on all trailers before starting on your route.
• Cargo carriers should be detailed when tarping and conducting routine checks, especially during inclement weather.

Your physical well-being

• Get plenty of rest to stay sharp and focused during your drive.
• Don't put yourself and others at risk with driver fatigue by recognizing its symptoms:
  • difficulty maintaining speed
  • missing road signs
  • drifting out of lanes
• To combat driver fatigue practice the following:
  • take breaks
  • avoid use of cruise control to 'stay in control'
  • respect your personal clock
  • don't drive when you would normally sleep
  • be ergonomically attentive
• Respect Mother Nature by getting off the road when road conditions warrant.

Permits and regulations

• When hauling over-dimensional loads check that you hold the necessary permits. Also, know your route, especially the dimensions of all bridges you'll encounter.
• When transporting dangerous goods be sure you hold valid training certificates and make sure identification placards are in place.