Commercial drivers are at a significantly higher risk of being in a car crash than the average driver. This is because they spend so much time on the road, often driving long distances and making multiple stops each day. While there are many risks associated with this profession, there are also ways to stay safe behind the wheel. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the dangers that professional drivers face, as well as tips for staying safe on the road.
The main differences between a professional, and casual driver
The one main difference between the two is the number of hours spent on the road. The average driver in America spends about 290 hours driving each year. In contrast, a commercial truck driver can easily spend upwards of 500 hours behind the wheel annually. This means that they are much more likely to be involved in a car crash simply because they are on the road more often. Moreover, a car accident lawyer in Athens says that there are a few other factors that contribute to the increased risk of car crashes for professional drivers. First, they tend to drive longer distances than the average driver. This means that they are more likely to encounter fatigue, which can lead to mistakes behind the wheel.
Second, many professional drivers make multiple stops each day, which can lead to distracted driving. And finally, commercial drivers often transport large loads, which can make it more difficult to control their vehicles.
The problem: Fatigue; The solution: Rest
One of the biggest risks that professional drivers face is fatigue. Fatigue can cause a driver to fall asleep at the wheel, which can obviously lead to disastrous consequences. In order to combat this, it is important to get enough rest before getting behind the wheel. This means making sure you are well-rested before starting your shift and taking breaks throughout the day to stay refreshed. It is also important to avoid driving late at night or early in the morning when you are likely to be more tired.
First and foremost, it is important to get plenty of rest before driving. This means getting at least eight hours of sleep each night and taking breaks every few hours when driving long distances. It is also important to eat healthy meals and avoid drinking alcohol before driving. When making multiple stops each day, it is important to take a few minutes to stretch your legs and rest your eyes.
The problem: Distraction; The solution: Aid your focus
Another big risk for professional drivers is distraction. Distracted driving is a leading cause of car crashes, and it can be even more dangerous for commercial drivers who have to deal with multiple distractions at once.
To avoid being distracted while driving, it is important to limit the number of distractions you have in the car. This means putting away your phone and any other electronics, and avoiding talking to passengers while you are driving. It is also important to stay focused on the road and be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you need to eat or drink while driving, it is best to pull over in a safe location first.
The problem: Large loads; The solution: Adequate preparation
Another issue that professional drivers often face is transporting large loads. This can make it more difficult to control the vehicle and can lead to accidents. To avoid this, it is important to secure your load properly before starting your trip. You should also drive slowly and carefully when carrying a heavy load, and be sure to give yourself plenty of space to stop.
The problem: Time limits; The solution: Good organization
Many professional drivers are under time constraints, which can lead to speeding and other risky behaviors. To avoid this, it is important to plan your route ahead of time and allow yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. It is also important to avoid driving late at night or in bad weather if possible. If you are running behind schedule, it is better to call your employer and let them know than to try to make up time by driving dangerously.
As a professional driver, there are a few extra risks that you need to be aware of. However, by taking the proper precautions and driving safely, you can minimize the dangers and stay safe on the road. Remember to get plenty of rest, avoid distractions, and secure your load before starting your trip. If you do these things, you will be well on your way to staying safe while driving. Most importantly, each of these steps will also help you remain organized, and thus, not rush anywhere.
