Driving a large truck or commercial vehicle is no easy task, and drivers must undergo additional training and licensing. Operating these trucks requires drivers to consider everything from tire pressure to weather to stay safe on the road. Consult the brief guide below to learn safety tips for truck drivers.

What All Truck Drivers Should Know 

1. Maneuver Around Curves

Commercial trucks tend to have elongated cargo, which can make their turns wider than those of a car. It’s best to slow down before making any turns, including on entrance and exit ramps. Failing to do so could cause the vehicle to roll over as high speeds make the tires lose contact with the pavement. 

2. Check Tire Pressure

Like with a standard car or truck, the tires on a commercial vehicle must have adequate inflation to avoid fires or blowouts. Unfortunately, a tire blowout on an 18-wheeler can be devastating for both the truck driver and other motorists. Always check the tire pressure before you start driving to ensure it is well within the company’s air pressure requirements.

3. Adjust for Weather

Ice, sleet, rain, and snow can produce treacherous road conditions and are often the cause of accidents on the road. Remember to cut your driving speed by at least a third in wet weather and by at least half for snowy or icy roads. Reducing speed allows you to have more reaction time to switch lanes, make turns, or adjust to other drivers.

4. Pay Attention to Blind Spots

Commercial trucks often have blind spots where the driver may not have a complete view of the road or other cars. Common blind spots include the area behind the side mirrors and directly behind the truck. Other drivers may be unaware of the commercial vehicle’s blind spots and may drive too close. It’s necessary to pay close attention to those areas and try to stay a safe distance from other motorists.

Stay safe on the road by heading over to The Best Shop in Soldotna, AK, for all of your commercial truck repair needs. This family-owned and -operated full-service truck shop provides fast service at affordable prices to residents and truckers throughout the Kenai Peninsula. Whether you need new tires, repairs, or truck accessories, their helpful team will take care of your needs. Call (907) 262-8785 today to speak with one of their truck mechanics or visit them online to learn more about what this shop has to offer.