Semi trucks are large and heavy vehicles that must be handled accordingly. Truckers are specially trained to do this, but it's always a good idea to occasionally refresh your memory on the best trucking practices. Following some basic rules while driving a semi truck helps to keep the driver and others on the road safe. In this blog post, we'll take a look at three tips that will help semi truck drivers stay safe while hauling their cargo.

1. Avoid Distractions, Impairment, and Fatigue

Distractions, impairment, and fatigue are all the worst enemies of truckers. It takes concentration and effort to keep those big rigs where they need to be. A trucker who's distracted or tired should stop until they're able to drive safely. Some truckers try to push the limits, but this can have catastrophic consequences.

One thing that truckers worry about is being able to meet delivery times. While these are important to keep the company competitive, having a trucker drive too many hours when they aren't in the condition to do so is an irresponsible and illegal business practice. Truckers must comply with the Hours of Service (HOS) regulations that are set by the federal government.

2. Ensure Proper Load Securement

Load securement is another primary component of safety for truckers. Federal regulations govern how different loads must be secured on a semi truck. When the regulations aren't followed, loads can become hazardous. The cargo may fall off the truck and impede traffic or it may cause the trucker to lose control while on the road.

In the United States, around 50% to 75% of traffic congestion in urban areas is caused by adverse incidents, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Some of these have to do with improper load securement and the potential hazards that loose cargo can cause. Truckers who ensure that their load is properly secure are more likely to get that cargo to the destination without damage.

3. Carefully Maintain the Truck

A semi truck must be in good condition if it's going to be able to make the long haul. When anything starts to go wrong or you notice any detail out of the ordinary, using a reputable semi truck repair service is critical. Some semi truck repair companies offer roadside assistance, which is valuable if there's something amiss while you're driving. Additionally, having a semi truck repair company handle regular maintenance on the rig is also important. Having regular maintenance performed helps to prevent problems before they start.

Ultimately, truckers must be empowered to do what's necessary to remain safe. Part of this comes from the policies set by the trucking companies they work for. One of the critical parts of semi truck safety is having a dependable semi truck repair business on standby. Give Armory Shell Towing & Auto Body a call for the semi truck maintenance services you need to keep your truck in tip-top shape!