Safe trucking has been a major talking point in the industry for 2017, and that comes into play now more than ever. This is perhaps the busiest season for carriers of all sizes. In addition to regular shipments, truckers have to deal with unpredictable weather, rushed orders, and road congestion that is nearing all time highs. At Express Freight Finance, we have put together some simple things to ensure safe trucking this season, and into the next year.
Safe Trucking Starts With You
You cannot depend on other drivers to be at their best. People are in a rush to get to their destinations. People in cars rarely have the training to handle wet or icy roads. You cannot depend on smaller vehicle drivers to have situational awareness in these and other driving condition. Safe trucking means not only being aware of smaller vehicles, but also anticipating potential hazards on the road.
Prepare For The Worst
Meteorologists have one of the few jobs where people draw a paycheck for being wrong. The most accurate weather analysis is sometimes as simple as looking out of your windshield while you are on the road. With all the weather apps and GPS traffic updates, you still never know when a freak storm will strike. Before heading out on the road, make sure you are prepared by packing the following:
- Flares
- Thermal blanket
- Change of clothes
- Dried food
- Shovel
- Chains
- Water
- Jumper cables
- Shovel
- Ice scraper
- Heat packs
- First aid kit
These are just the basics. You may want to pack even more items for longer trips to ensure safe trucking. You can’t anticipate bad weather sometimes, and you can never predict when you need to help yourself or someone else out of a tight spot.
Safe Trucking Into The New Year
Remember that you are your own first line of defense when you are hauling shipments. Do not over-exert yourself when you are on the road. If you are feeling tired, try to find actual lodging. Pulling off to the side of the road or a basic parking lot could leave you snowed in when you wake up. Motels and the like actually have plows to ensure other drivers can get out and on the road when they need to, without delays.
People rely on truckers heavily throughout the year, but this time of the ear brings added pressure. As an industry, we need to practice safe trucking to reduce fatalities among drivers. Customers, drivers, and their families depend on it.
At Express Freight Finance, we specialize in freight bill factoring services, as well as comprehensive fuel card plans for independent truckers. Contact us today at 801-890-6570 to ensure your operation grows successfully.
