11 Defensive Driving Tips for Commercial Motorists
Do you know every 7 seconds, someone is injured in a car crash? Work-related safety is not only limited to indoor or onsite safety. One of the most unavoidable hazards include driving large vehicles aggressively, without taking care of the SOPs. it results in countless casualties and huge financial damage to the organization.
Drivers need to have defensive driving training for small vehicles to better understand the safety rules and regulations. It helps them keep themselves and those on the road safe. So, to help you understand the areas that are included in defensive driving training for large vehicles, go through the checklist of defensive driving with the 11 best techniques one should follow:
The Must-Follow 11 Defensive Driving Tips For Commercial Motorists
Here is a list of techniques you should follow:
1) Stay Focused on the Road
As part of the habits of defensive drivers, many lack attention to the road. They pay little to no attention to the basic driving rules and ethics. When driving a large commercial vehicle you must avoid distractions like using your mobile phones or munching on snacks and food. Keep both hands on the wheel to maintain proper control. And most importantly, stay mentally alert by avoiding driving when tired.
2) Keep a Safe Following Distance
You should maintain at least a 4-second gap from the vehicle ahead. It helps you control your vehicle in case of any emergency or sudden turn the car ahead makes. You can increase this distance during adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic. Always stay prepared for sudden stops or lane changes by others.
3) Observe Traffic Rules and Speed Limits
You need to be aware of the safety rules regarding the speed limits. You should follow them and obey all the traffic signals and road signs. You should adjust your speed according to weather and road conditions.
4) Check Blind Spots Regularly
It’s important to stay mindful of the blind spots on the road. If you have a fixed route to travel daily you can take notes of the turns that can be tricky and adjust your speed accordingly. You can use mirrors frequently and thoroughly to stay aware of the sharp and blind turns. Always check blind spots before changing lanes. You have to be cautious of smaller vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists that may be hidden from view.
5) Use Defensive Maneuvering
A good driver is one who knows how to handle the vehicle in times of emergency. So, before getting on board for commercial driving, you must polish your driving skills. You should know how to anticipate potential dangers and prepare to react safely. Always avoid aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating or cutting off other drivers. You should be ready to make controlled evasive moves if necessary.
6) Avoid Fatigue and Take Breaks
When you are heading for a longer route always plan your breaks. You should know where to stop and for how long you can take a break. Do not opt for driving without any stops. This will exhaust your brain and body and you get in a vulnerable position of causing accidents. You should follow hours-of-service regulations to prevent driver fatigue. Most importantly, learn to recognize the early signs of drowsiness, such as frequent yawning or lane drifting.
7) Maintain Proper Vehicle Maintenance
It’s important to conduct a pre-trip inspection to ensure brakes, lights, and tires are all in good condition. If there is any issue, address it to your mechanic and get the vehicles checked thoroughly. Your commercial vehicle should always stay properly maintained. You should keep it clean to avoid any hindrance while driving.
8) Adapt to Weather Conditions
At times of adverse weather conditions, you need not speed up your vehicle. The roads get sloppy during rainfall or the wind gets fogging which blurs the vision. So, it’s best to stay calm and slow down in icy, foggy, or rainy conditions. You should use your headlights and wipers to improve visibility. And always keep a space between you and the vehicle ahead on slippery roads.
9) Watch for Aggressive Drivers
When you are on the road you have to control your nerves and stay calm. Try to keep your focus on your vehicle rather than indulging with other aggressive drivers. In commercial driving, many drivers get carried away and start to overtake others competitively, and that results in accidents and crashes. The driver loses control and causes damage. So, it’s best to stay calm and avoid engaging with aggressive drivers. You should give space to drivers displaying road rage or unsafe behaviors.
10) Use Signals Effectively
The traffic signals help you navigate the road safely. When driving a large commercial vehicle it’s important to follow all the signs. You should also alert others on the road at times of changing the lane. No need to rush into dodging other vehicles. This can create confusion. Use hazard lights to warn other drivers of an issue or sudden stop. You should make sure that all signal lights are functioning properly.
11) Be Aware of Your Surroundings
The last important technique that every driver must follow is to constantly scan the road ahead, behind, and to the sides. You should watch for pedestrians, animals, or unexpected obstacles. Be alert and conscious about others on the road. Anticipate and react to the actions of other drivers. It’s crucial to be aware of how the other drivers are performing and predict their moves. It gives you a way to keep yourself away from any danger.
Wrap Up
Organizations should begin safety driving training for all commercial drivers to help them understand the safety rules and regulations. They must learn about the safe driving practices and how to avoid hazards. In case of any emergency, drivers should have a basic sense and intuitive approach to maneuver the vehicle expertly.
