This may be obvious, but making it part of your regular practice to obey speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs will go a long way. Also, be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and always be prepared to react to sudden changes in traffic. You should also leave enough space between your truck and the vehicle ahead for safe braking. In adverse weather conditions or traveling at high speeds, increase your following distance even further.  Especially for long haul drivers, time on the road might become a blur, so it's important to find techniques to help maintain your focus.

Commercial truckers often have long days of work and difficult tasks. Whether you are in a bucket truck working on electrical lines, driving a delivery truck through busy city streets, hauling huge loads in a dump truck, or driving a box truck long distance, total focus is needed to stay safe! Since fatigue can impair your judgment and reaction time, make sure to get enough rest before each trip or work day and take regular breaks if you have a long drive. If you feel drowsy, pull over in a safe location and rest until you're alert again. Also, distractions such as using a mobile phone, eating, or adjusting controls, can significantly impair driving. Stay focused on the road and avoid any activities that divert your attention. 

Today's commercial trucks come with all sorts of technology that can help operators stay safe, make use of them! Adjust your mirrors properly and use them consistently to monitor traffic around your truck. Be aware of blind spots and check them frequently. You should also always use your turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers, whether you see other traffic around you or not. Keep your lights in good working condition and use them appropriately in low visibility. Before you go out on the road, secure your cargo correctly, as improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, leading to accidents or damage. Follow proper loading procedures, use restraints, and distribute weight evenly to maintain stability.

Check weather forecasts before your trip and prepare accordingly. Slow down and exercise caution in the rain, snow, fog, or other adverse weather conditions. Slow down and follow all signage when driving through construction or work zones. Watch out for workers and equipment, be prepared for lane closures or detours, and use your indicators, headlights, and horns to communicate your intentions to other motorists. Maintain clear and consistent communication to avoid confusion and prevent accidents. In an emergency, carry essential safety equipment, such as a fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, and a first aid kit. Know how to handle emergencies and report incidents promptly.

Now that you know how to behave behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle, it's time to get one for yourself. Commercial vehicles from Ram, Chevy, Ford, among others, can be valuable tools for you and your business. If you are interested in checking out our inventory, you can do so in person and even schedule a test drive with our team at 56 Auto Sales. If you enjoy your test drive, we have a complete finance department that will take it from there, so you get a great deal. You can also view our entire commercial inventory here on our website!