Safe driving techniques every truck operator should know

As a truck operator it is your social responsibility to promote safety on the road by practicing safe driving techniques on an ongoing basis. This not only involves knowing how to properly handle your vehicle during an emergency situation, but to stay on top of practices that will help you to avoid them in the first place. 

According to the latest OPP collision data, the number of collisions involving large commercial transport trucks in Ontario has been on the rise since 2009, increasing from 4,667 to 6,140 in 2014. What's sad about these stats is that many of them had the potential to be avoided, with distracted driving being a major contributing factor.

The bottom line is we should all strive to be "evasive drivers" in order to avoid accidents, and this goes beyond shunning distractions like talking and texting on a phone. When it comes to being behind the wheel and safe driving, it is your responsibility to always be risk-averse and mindful about potential hazards that could surprise you on the road.

On that note, have you been slacking on practicing safe driving techniques lately? It's ok, we've all been guilty of it at some point, but it's not something to take lightly when you consider the fact that a little slip could cause an injury or even death. The following are some basic safety driving techniques & practices that every truck operator should have down pat, so pull out some popcorn, enjoy the videos and drive safe!

Always expect the unexpected

Use Signals, Check All Mirrors & Block Lane With Trailer When Turning

Go Slow When There’s Snow

Decrease Speed, Increase Following Distance & Intensify Scanning At Night

Maintain Safe Following Distance to Prevent Rear-End Collisions