Every trucking company out there has a safety department. Some of them provide the basics to get by and some have on going safety training to keep the subject of safety constantly in the mind of their drivers.
Which companies do you think have the better safety rating?
Statistics have proven that the companies with the constant safety training are the ones with the better ratings. Remember this next time you complain about having to take a class or send in a message. The more safety conscious YOU are, the least likely you are to have an accident or incident. 
How many times have you backed into a dock or parking space without getting out and looking? How often have you answered your cell phone while you are driving down the road or read a text message. What about your on board computer or GPS? Do you drive in extremely bad weather just because your company allows it?
I know
some of these questions may sound ridiculous to some of you but safety affects many aspects of the trucking industry. Even your health can affect how safe you are behind the wheel.
I am not going to get into a drawn out lecture on safety here. What I would like is for YOU to think about it and tell us some of the things YOU do to stay safe. Tell us about the company you work for and how they keep safety on the drivers minds. Pass along some lessons you may have learned. Tell us how important safety is to YOU.
Your Feedback is appreciated!
BE SAFE!!
Jim & Jan
My number one rule, know where your going and plan your route. This is most important when you have never been where your going. As far as winter safety. Be sure your have the proper clothing to ensure that you stay dry ,warm ,and are able handle a possable break down . Don’t think oh it is a no touch load and i am coming right back south. Maine in november is not the same as november in massauchetts BE SAFE !! the life you save may be your own !!!!!!
I’ve been off the road for a little while now, but the tips I used to keep me and others safe are timeless. I still practice them. There are many simple things that drivers can do to promote safety, but here are just a few to add to the list:
Rest
For starters, I don’t begin my trip tired. I believe in a good night’s sleep, or whatever time of day available to sleep -try to get the best rest possible. I choose quiet areas to take my naps so there would be as little noise or distraction as possible. In good weather, turn off the truck and rolled down the windows a notch to allow a small breeze. Makes for an excellent nap, and a clear mind when you start driving.
Roadside Stops
Unless it is an emergency, I never stop on the side of the road for any reason. There just isn’t enough space on the side of any roadway for a truck to do anything safely.
Lights on
I drive with my lights on regardless of time of day. There is great value in making other motorists aware of your presence especially in inclement weather, early hours of the day or evening. Most drivers just take a quick glance at the mirrors when changing lanes, and if they can’t see you -they’re probably the ones who cut you off.
Take time to change lanes
I check and double-check, sometimes even a few times before I change lanes. Lane change accidents are very common and also easily avoided by taking extra precautions. I use my mirrors, and even look out the window sometimes. When driving in crowded areas, I try to stay in the correct lane well in advance to avoid having to change lanes quickly for an exit.
My company, Trip Sheet Central includes safety messages on all communications to drivers, which helps drivers stay aware of safety issues.