Defensive Driving and Trucks

When driving a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) the road can be a very dangerous place. There are many obstacles those with truck driving jobs have to face. Some of the obstacles are under your control, while others are not. A few of the obstacles truck drivers face that are out of their control are aggressive drivers, distracted drivers, and just plain ignorant drivers. While there is nothing you can do about the other drivers, there are defensive techniques that can be taken to make sure you are doing all you can do to stay safe.

These techniques are very simple, and often times overlooked. They are things such as making sure you have enough sleep to stay alert while driving, not being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on the road, and not getting upset and vengeful when another driver does something wrong such as cutting you off. Instead, be the better driver; when another vehicle cuts you of, simply create a decent amount of space between the car and yourself and continue driving. Try listening to music with an upbeat tempo while driving and singing along. Doing this will both help you stay awake and maintain a positive attitude while driving.

Be alert of the driving conditions around you. If visibility is minimal, the roads are slick, or there is an accident on the highway, make the proper adjustments to your speed and, if necessary, pull over until the conditions improve. The most important thing to remember about truck driving is than no load is worth your life.

It is always best to assume other drivers are going to make mistakes. This will help you stay alert and prepared for whatever might happen. Also, assume the other drivers will not see you. Always keep a proper stopping distance between your truck and the vehicle in front of you.

These are some simple rules to remember when becoming a truck driver that can keep you safe while on the road, and perhaps even save your life. It is important to make sure that as a truck driver you act professionally and remember; you are not only representing yourself and your company, but you are also representing truck drivers throughout the world. For more information on truck driving or obtaining a truck driving job visit the CR England website.