Road Transport
Tips
Take the safe route
Sharing the road with thousands of cars, minivans, four-by-fours and cyclists can challenge even the most patient trucker. The best way to ensure everyone's safety -- especially yours -- is to drive defensively. Anticipate traffic movements, expect the unexpected and always watch out for the other guy.
When you're behind the wheel day after day, let common sense be your guide and follow these safe driving tips:
- If you've got a problem with your rig, get it fixed. It's not worth trying to push your limits for one more hour. You've got a lot riding on your truck, not the least of which is your life.
- Drive smoothly in a straight line. Weaving in and out of traffic, excessive speeding and abrupt changes in direction can all lead to accidents.
- Let other drivers know what you're going to do by signalling far in advance.
- Stay well behind the vehicle ahead of you. You'll not only have sufficient stopping distance, you'll command a better view of the road.
- Remain calm. Most accidents occur when the drivers are angry or tense.
- Be prepared for evasive action if another driver makes a mistake. Leave "room for error" -- enough room between you and the other driver. Most important, always think about what you'll do if something happens.
- On a two-lane highway, only pass when the way is clear. You can never accurately judge an on-coming vehicle's speed.
- Avoid eye strain, especially at night, by blinking. Not only does it relieve eye tension, it keeps your eyes moist and clean.
- Your windshield washers may be unpredictable in extremely cold weather, especially when travelling at highway speeds. Avoid visibility problems. In extreme weather, show extra caution and slow down -- or pull off the road.
- Most high beam headlights can reach a distance of 100m (330 ft), but the stopping distance for a vehicle travelling at 100 km/hr is 125m (410 ft). Therefore, slow down at night to stay within your safe range of vision.
- Learn from your mistakes. Close calls and minor accidents should be warning signs that you need to correct your driving habits.
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