While automobiles are more frequently involved in accidents, trucks, particularly larger trucks, are associated with more severe outcomes. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), in 2023, 5,375 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes, resulting in 5,472 deaths. Of these fatalities, 70% were passenger vehicle occupants, 18% were truck occupants, and 12% … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Part IX: Accident Trends”
Defensive driving is a critical safety tool for truck drivers. It combines awareness, anticipation, and careful habits to help drivers avoid accidents before they happen. It allows drivers to be proactive on the road, predicting and averting potential issues. What is Skill Testing for Truckers Skill testing or training for truckers goes beyond the standard … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Part VIII: Skill Testing for Truck Drivers”
The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires supervisors of Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) drivers to complete 60 minutes of training on alcohol misuse and 60 minutes on controlled substance use to recognize reasonable suspicion of impairment. The objective of the training is to equip supervisors with the information and resources to identify physical, behavioral, speech, and … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Part VII: Drug & Alcohol Supervisor and Driver Training”
It’s that time of year when weather conditions change, and truckers need to be aware of how adverse road conditions, like rain, snow, sleet, fog, and gusting winds, can impact visibility, braking distance, and overall vehicle control. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, approximately 12% of vehicular crashes are weather-related. Specifically, … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Part VI: Managing Adverse Road Conditions”
In this part of our Defensive Driving series, we review procedures truckers should follow in the event of an emergency. Share and reinforce these measures with your drivers to keep them and others safe on the road. If Your Vehicle Stalls or Breaks Down The first thing a driver should do is secure the vehicle. … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Part V: Emergency Procedures for Truckers”
In this article of our defensive driving series, we cover the importance of implementing regular vehicle inspections. Vehicle inspections are a preventive safety strategy and a cornerstone of defensive driving, with each inspection an opportunity to reduce risk, improve driver confidence, and control insurance costs. Why Vehicle Inspections Are Critical Prevent Failures Before They Happen: … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Training Part IV: Vehicle Inspections”
A safe transport trip doesn’t end with good driving. It also depends on how the cargo is handled before, during, and after transportation. Defensive driving training should involve teaching truckers the skills to load, secure, and protect cargo in a way that prevents damage, loss, and theft. Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can compromise vehicle … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Training Part III: Cargo Handling & Security”
In addition to mastering safe driving skills, professional truck drivers must navigate a complex web of regulations designed to protect drivers, the public, and the integrity of the transportation industry. Defensive driving training should go beyond behind-the-wheel skills to include a strong foundation in regulatory compliance. In the following article of our “Defensive Driving” series, … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Training Part II: Regulatory Compliance for Truckers”
Part of an ongoing series on improving road safety through driver education Safety is a top priority in the trucking industry. With large vehicles operating for extended periods and covering thousands of miles, defensive driving training plays a crucial role in reducing accidents, protecting lives, and safeguarding company assets. This is the first article in … Continue reading “Defensive Driving Training in the Trucking Industry”
Dash cams in fleets offer motor carriers several advantages. They can be used as a tool to improve driver safety, reduce accident liability, enhance training opportunities, and protect against fraudulent claims, which can provide cost savings and greater operational efficiencies. Conveying these benefits is critical to getting driver buy-in. You want drivers not to view … Continue reading “Ensure You Have a Dash Cam Policy in Place”
