As a truck driver, it is just as important to be able to properly handle a roadside breakdown as it is to be behind the wheel. Every professional driver should know what to do in case of a breakdown. The following are some preventative measures to take, as well as how to deal with a breakdown.
How Can I Prevent A Breakdown?
There are many things that truck drivers can do in order to prevent or at least lower the chances of experiencing a breakdown on the road. One important thing is for drivers to keep their vehicles maintained. If you work hard to keep your truck maintained, this will help prevent many breakdowns.
Pre-trip inspections can help prevent truck breakdowns. Did you know that tire problems account for 25% or more of all truck breakdowns? According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), one of the most common causes of vehicle breakdowns is tire failure.
If tires aren’t properly inflated, you could end up with a blowout and lose control of your truck and trailer. Make sure that your load isn’t unbalanced and that your tires are properly inflated.
Ensuring your breaks are in good shape is another way to prevent breakdowns. You can do this by getting them checked at least once a year.
What should I do if my truck breaks down?
According to the FMCSA, you should always try to move your truck out of traffic and off the road as soon as possible after it breaks down. It is important not to lose your cool and to stay calm, professional, and safe. A driver should take three important steps when your truck breaks down.
- Pull over in order to clear the roadway and allow regular traffic to flow.
- Use your visibility equipment such as flares, triangle reflectors, and warning lights.
- If you can’t fix the issue, it is important to let your dispatcher know what is going on and where you are.
Remember, if you fail to pull over safely or follow the correct procedures when your truck breaks down on the road, you could be subject to fines and other civil claims.
Closing
Breakdowns can happen at any time, and even the safest drivers will experience them. However, by following these steps and following safe driving practices, their chance of happening can be decreased.
Here at FCC, we care about our drivers and their safety. We work hard to ensure that our drivers are never stranded on the side of the road during a breakdown. Our experienced dispatchers can help make sure that a driver gets the help they need fast.
As always, here at FCC, we strive to be your number one choice in trucking! Consider driving for FCC today!