AlaCOMP

Trucking Safety Tips

The trucking industry is a vital part of our economy. This segment of industry can also be one of the most dangerous, as truck drivers face numerous hazards. Below are 10 safety tips for truck drivers:

1. Complete a thorough pre-trip inspection. The pre-trip inspection is required under FMCSA regulations. If any deficiencies are found, make sure to report and correct them.
2. Always use three points of contact. When entering and exiting the tractor and/or trailer, make sure to always keep three points of contact (i.e., two hands, one foot or two feet, one hand).
3. Seatbelts are required. It is the law! For drivers that fall under FMCSA regulations, it is a federal law that you always wear your seatbelt. We recommend having a written policy in place requiring seatbelt use and have your drivers sign it.
4. No handheld cell phone use while driving! This is a violation of FMCSA regulations and can lead to fines for the driver, as well as the company. 
5. Work/school zone safety. Slow down and stay at a heightened state of awareness in work and school zones. Approximately 33% of all work zone deaths are trucking-related.
6. Scan ahead for hazards. On the open road, be sure to scan ahead 15 seconds and always expect the unexpected. When driving in the city, scan ahead one city block.
7. Speed and space management. Maintaining proper speed and space management is essential to being a safe and professional driver. Try to maintain the appropriate distance necessary between you and the vehicle in front of you. Increase this space when in inclement weather. 
8. Always use your signals and avoid lane changes when possible. Avoiding frequent lane changes reduces the risk of a collision drastically; however, this is not always possible.
9. Know where you are stopping/parking. If stopping on the road, find a safe, well-lit area such as a truck stop to do so.  When arriving at your destination to load or unload, inspect the area to check for hazards such as potholes and other items that could cause an accident or injury.
10. Loading and unloading freight.  Make sure to always use proper lifting techniques. Use lift assist devices such as pallet jacks when possible. Never use a forklift unless you are authorized and trained. If you are not involved with the loading or unloading process, stay out of the way!

Following these tips and staying within the boundaries of your task and training will help to prevent accidents and injuries on the road as well as at the loading and unloading locations. 

For more information, visit the AlaCOMP Online Safety Library and click on the DOT-Fleet Driver safety section. If you have questions or need addition help please contact our Loss Control Department .