6 Important Things You Should Know When Driving a Truck

Driving is a necessary life skill because we rely on cars to get around. It’s also useful during emergencies, or if you need to get somewhere quickly, so most people are encouraged to drive. While switching from car to car is pretty straightforward, some people drive bigger vehicles such as trucks as part of their work, which is never easy.

Aside from the size, driving a truck is different from driving a car because the blindspots are bigger, meaning you have to be more careful when changing lanes or making turns. You also have to be more aware of your surroundings because you’re carrying a larger load, which can sometimes affect how fast you stop or how the truck drives. If you’re not careful, fatalities are likely to happen. For this reason, a driver switching from a car to a truck must know certain things, such as:

#1 – There Are More Blind Spots to Keep an Eye On

As mentioned earlier, trucks have bigger blind spots than cars. These blind spots are located on the sides and at the back of the truck, and if you’re not careful, you might end up in one and get hit by another vehicle. To avoid this, always check your mirrors before making any move, and use your turn signals to let other drivers know what you’re doing.

You must also be more aware of your surroundings. Because you’re carrying a large load, it can affect how fast you stop or the truck drives. You should always be on the lookout for other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles and be ready to stop or take evasive action if necessary.

#2 – You Can Speed Up Faster

Trucks can speed up faster because of their weight and torque. They can accelerate faster than cars, so it’s essential to be careful when speeding up. You can also turn quicker because the truck’s weight can help keep the truck from sliding. Slow down when you’re making a turn and ensure you’re in the proper lane before you turn. You should also use your turn signals to let other drivers know what you’re doing. Again, you should always check your mirrors before moving to ensure no one behind you might get hit by your truck.

#3 – The Size of the Truck Is the Key to How It Drives

The size of the truck is the key to how it drives. A smaller truck will have a shorter wheelbase, making it easier to maneuver. It will also have a lower centre of gravity, which makes it less likely to tip over. On the other hand, a larger truck will have a longer wheelbase, which makes it harder to maneuver. It will also have a higher centre of gravity, which makes it more likely to tip over. Knowing the truck’s size and how it drives can help you be a safer driver.

#4 – You Should Be More Careful When Driving under Bad Weather

Bad weather can make driving conditions extremely treacherous, especially for large trucks. When the roads are slick with rain or snow, it takes much longer for a truck to stop, and it’s more challenging to maneuver. This can put other drivers at risk, as well as the truck driver themselves. If you must drive in bad weather, take extra care to drive slowly and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles. And, of course, make sure your truck is in good condition before setting out – well-maintained brakes and tires are essential in wet or icy conditions.

#5 – Routine Maintenance Is Much More Necessary

Routine maintenance is necessary for any car, but it’s more critical for trucks because they get more wear and tear than most vehicles. Tires need to be replaced more frequently, brakes need to be inspected and serviced more often, and the engine needs to be tuned up more regularly. In addition, you should regularly check the fluids and ensure the truck is clean inside and out. A well-maintained truck will last longer and perform better, making driving much safer.

#6 – Your Actions on the Road Can Affect Other Drivers

Above all else, truck drivers need to be aware of what they’re doing on the road. Their actions can seriously affect other drivers, and they must always be cautious of their surroundings. If you’re not paying attention or speeding, you could cause an accident that injures or kills another driver. You should be mindful of your actions on the road and always drive safely.

Conclusion

Truck drivers need to be extra careful when driving because their vehicles are larger and heavier than most other vehicles on the road. They must be aware of their surroundings and know how to handle their trucks properly. Following these tips can stay safe on the road and avoid accidents.

If you’re looking for a truck driving school in Toronto, Sprint Driving School can help you! Driving a truck or another big vehicle is different from driving the average car, so we will ensure that you will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to be safe while on the road. Simply go to our website to get started!