Summer Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

Truck drivers are confronted with serious risks every day, but the summer months bring a whole new set of safety issues to deal with on the road. As temperatures rise and vacationers hit the highways, the risk of being involved in a serious or fatal truck accident dramatically increases. Truck drivers that are aware of these inherent dangers and prepare for safe travel can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury for all drivers and pedestrians on the road.

Practice Safe Truck Driving

Truck drivers and fleet owners have a legal responsibility to ensure their trucks, trailers, and drivers are well maintained. Attention to the following preventive safety measures can ensure the safety of all those on the road, including passenger vehicles, pedestrians, and children.

• Perform routine inspections and maintenance of all trucks and trailers.
• Ensure tires are properly inflated.
• Inspect and test brakes before every trip.
• Ensure all drivers are properly trained and updated on all safety measures, trucking laws, and new technology.
• Avoid traveling in inclement weather, especially areas expecting high winds, heavy rains, or tornadoes.
• Be vigilant in school zones; even though schools are on summer break, many still have summer activities that call children back to school.
• Obey local speed laws, especially in construction work zones.
• Beware of vehicles that are loaded with vacation or college-bound luggage; many of these drivers may be unfamiliar with traffic patterns and interstate driving.
• Try to avoid traveling in high traffic areas during peak hours; seek alternate routes when available.

Take Care of the Driver

The summer months can be brutal on our bodies and working in high temperatures can bring on sudden illnesses. Be sure to take the following precautions to avoid these hazards:

• Keep fresh water handy and remember to take frequent water breaks.
• Avoid drowsy driving by taking mandated rest breaks and limiting continuous driving hours.
• Refrain from distracted driving, such as answering phone calls and texts, eating, drinking, and reaching for objects across the cab.
• Use sun block and sunglasses to limit exposure to harmful UV rays. Sunburn and eye strain can occur through windshields and side windows.
• Eat a well-balanced diet and avoid high fat and sugary foods that cause sugar fluctuations and drowsiness.
• Seek medical attention for any health issues that arise, such as extreme fatigue, dizziness, profuse or absent sweating, fainting, chest pains, or digestive issues that can all point to heat-related illnesses.
• Take frequent breaks and walk around to avoid the risk of blood clots and to refresh your mind.
• Avoid over-caffeinating; caffeine can provide a false sense of energy. Even though drivers may feel a surge of energy and mental alertness from caffeinated drinks, the body and mind are still depleted from lack of sleep.

Edwardsville Truck Accident Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC Help Victims of Truck Accidents Claim Compensation

If you were injured in a truck accident, the Edwardsville truck accident lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC can help. Call us at 618-277-3644 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients throughout Belleville, Carbondale, East St. Louis, Granite City, Edwardsville, Chester, Waterloo, St. Louis, Madison County, St. Clair County, Monroe County, and Randolph County.