When it comes to truck driving, safety plays a crucial role one cannot neglect. Various accidents can be prevented if some safety measures are followed. If you are a truck driver, then there are some simple rules you need to follow for your and other’s safety. The majority of accidents that take place today are truck accidents. This is why truck drivers need to be extra careful about driving to decrease the number of casualties, especially during rush hour.
In this article, we will touch upon various precautions that every truck driver should take when driving in traffic and what to do when they have met with an accident. Some of the safety tips you need to follow as a truck driver include:
Wear A Safety Belt – Experts say that most drivers today don’t wear safety belts while driving. It is essential to wear safety belts as it helps in preventing serious injuries to the back. At least 40% of crash-related injuries happen because people don’t wear a safety belt.
Avoid Using A Cell Phone While Driving – While it is careless to use your phone while you are on the go, it is also illegal to use it when driving. When you are texting or talking on the phone, it can distract you leading to hazardous accidents.
Know The Speed Limits – When it comes to driving a truck, you need to be aware of the speed limits on the road. If you want to stay safe on the road, then you must adhere to the speed limit.
Avoid Drugs And Alcohol – Even though it might sound quite common, it is one of the most essential tips to consider when you are driving. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol may result in a major accident. This is mainly because these things tend to play games with your brain and you are not fully conscious about things happening around you.
Plan The Trip – Before beginning your journey, you need to plan your trip as unexpected things can come up during the road trip. This is why it is essential to plan your trip and pack extra clothes and food. Above all, you can have a safe trip if you are prepared well.
Drive Slow On Curves – When you are driving, you need to slow down when you are on a curve. Additionally, you also need to ensure that there is safe space around the sides of your vehicle so there is a minimum chance of an accident.
Maintain Adequate Stopping Distance – You need to ensure that you maintain proper stopping distance between your vehicle and others to avoid collisions.
Consider The Weather – You need to research the place you are traveling to and consider the weather conditions to avoid dangerous situations that arise due to bad weather. It is better not to drive during harsh weather.
What to Do If You Are Involved In A Truck Accident?
It can be scary to be involved in a truck accident (if you are call CallTheAccidentGuys.com) and it can cause considerable loss of limb and even life. It is mainly because the accidents are vicious owing to the size of the vehicle and the external factors involved.
If you are involved in a truck accident, you need to do a few things. Firstly, you need to stop and report the accident if you can. Additionally, you can check who all are involved in the accident and you need to remain at the accident spot. You need to ensure that you are safe and if possible, you should move your truck to the side of the road. For other vehicles to see your truck, switch on the lights and keep cones around the truck. You can even light road flares. This will help you in preventing further hazards. You need to call 911 as soon as possible if anyone is injured or has died at the accident spot. After the police officer arrives, he can help you once the scene has been assessed. He will also fill out the accident report and tell you what they can do next for you.
Look for medical treatment as soon as possible. While this may seem like a standard tip, it is an important one. The adrenaline flowing through your veins will prevent you from looking at your injury and you may end up ignoring it. It would be best to visit a hospital after the accident, provided you receive preliminary treatment at the accident spot. You may find it challenging to claim your compensation if you fail to seek any treatment post the accident.
You also need to look for other parties involved. You need to identify the other cars or trucks that were involved in the accident. It is also essential to ensure you are aware of who is responsible for the cause of the accident.
You also need to exchange information. It is essential to give out your information and collect the same from other parties present at the scene. After the others leave the accident spot, it can be challenging to track them down. You need to get the contact details of other drivers and the name of their employers if any.
You need to also check if there were witnesses. The witnesses tend to play a crucial role in accident cases. Additionally, you can collect some witness statements and collect their contact details as well.
Conclusion
After the accident, you should speak to your insurance provider because any statement can be used against you. It is advised that you also talk to your lawyer before you meet your insurance provider. If possible, you need to connect with a truck accident attorneys.
The main goal while driving is to never get into this situation and avoid accidents as much as possible. While driving during rush hour, be cautious and take mandatory precautions. One should always drive carefully and follow the tips mentioned above to stay safe on the roads.
