Don’t Get Blindsided! Common Misconceptions About Truck Safety

Have you ever experienced a slight apprehension when a large vehicle passes by on the highway? You’re not by yourself. It might be frightening to drive along these enormous creatures. However, what if some of the widely held notions regarding truck safety are false? 

Get comfortable, as we are going to reveal the reality underlying these myths. We can all use the highways more confidently and safely if we are aware of the reality of truck driving. So cast off the myths and be ready for a more comfortable trip!

The myths about driving near trucks have long been a topic where potential hazards will result. Thus, debunking the stigma of the common misconception of driving a truck will make your driving smooth and safe. In this article, we will unravel the factors that contribute to the misconceptions of truck drivers.

Myths Related To Truck Safety!

We often fall for misconceptions and compromise our safety, thinking that a superhero would save us. But life isn’t a fairy tale. We have to take care of our own selves. Here are some common myths related to it and how you can protect yourself from unprecedented dangers:

Lack of Awareness

Large trucks have size, weight, and stopping constraints that many automobile drivers are unaware of. Cars can easily vanish from view due to trucks’ large blind areas on the sides and back. 

When compared to cars, trucks need a lot more room to stop, especially when they are loaded. Compared to vehicles, trucks can’t turn as sharply and have a broader turning radius. 

Media Portrayal

Truck drivers are frequently portrayed in TV series and movies as careless or inattentive. This may lead to a stereotype that incorrectly represents the great majority of drivers who work as professionals. 

In this type of entertainment, many people who watch TV series or movies are deceived by the actions they perform without consulting a professional truck driver. Thus, it will result in an accident if they copy the media portrayal of driving a truck, which is not proper handling of the truck.

Personal Biases

Because of their limited experience, drivers might have preconceived opinions about truck drivers. It is easy to draw conclusions about the trucking industry as a whole after a bad experience with one individual. 

Thus, the opinions of others should not always be true, and you should not follow them, but a professional truck driver would give you the correct advice or opinion.

Outdated information

Though information on traffic safety is always changing, some people could still cling to antiquated notions about truck safety laws or the latest developments in braking technology. 

In that sense, you should be aware of the rules and regulations of driving a truck since they are still a new policy or law.

Trucking Industry Focus

Safety precautions may occasionally be neglected in favor of efficiency and on-time delivery by the trucking sector, which could lead to the false belief that safety comes second. 

Thus, the industry also contributes to the truck accident since they will hasten the delivery. That’s why truck drivers are fatigued while driving and may not be able to focus on the road.

How To Stay Safe While Driving Truck? A Guide For Drivers

Safety is no less than teamwork. In order to make a safe environment for ourselves, drivers have to take care of a few things. If you are a truck driver, below are some steps that will help you to stay safe on the road: 

1. Conduct a pre and post-trip examination

First things first, truck drivers must inspect their vehicles before taking them on the road. This inspection will help to check if there are any damages or hazards inside the vehicle.

More in-depth inspections help you delve deeper into the problems. Every month, it should be done to check brake lights and ensure things are in the right place.

2. Never forget your seat belt

This goes without saying that seat belts are a must for almost all vehicles. However, truck drivers are at a greater risk, which is why they should never forget it.

Speeding is very dangerous and can lead to unprecedented expenses on your part. So, it is best to be on the safer side and keep both yourself and your vehicle safe. 

3. Follow the speed limit

Thirdly, people should never forget the posted speed limit. More than 26% of truck accidents are caused due to excessive speed limits. 

So, for truck safety, it is better not to exceed the prescribed limit. However, the speed limit depends a lot on the road you are traveling. Don’t forget to check that. 

4. Learn defensive techniques for driving

Defensive driving is an approach where drivers check potential hazards and change the way of driving according to road conditions.

This is not always practiced, but in some cases, defensive driving is very effective. For instance, you can scan the rearview or side mirrors when driving in a new location. 

5. Brake Sooner

Braking has a conventional law that does not apply to trucks, unfortunately. Trucks are heavier in comparison to small vehicles, which is why they cannot stop immediately. 

The brakes in a truck work overtime to slow down the vehicle’s speed. Hence, you might need to apply brakes sooner in order to keep the vehicle running in motion. 

6. Keep Safe Distance

Going too close with other drivers might put you at the risk of crashing. As I said, trucks are heavier and do not stop quickly. 

So, you must maintain a safe distance between in order to ensure truck safety. If weather conditions are bad, make sure to take some time before going out. 

7. Don’t Forget To Signal

Last but not least, don’t forget to change lanes in advance. This will give other vehicles a lot of space and time to pass away.

Signaling is very significant when taking out your vehicle on the road. Other drivers will know which direction you want to go and they will give you the pass. 

Conclusion

By dispelling these widespread misunderstandings, we can encourage a safer driving atmosphere for all. Driving alongside trucks doesn’t have to be difficult. We can all drive more politely and responsibly if we recognize their limitations and show respect for them. 

Keep these busted myths in mind the next time you see a truck in your rearview mirror because, as they say, knowledge truly is power when driving. Be careful when driving!