HGV driving takes you places and provides exciting career opportunities. They offer the chance of seeing the world as well as job security and significant financial rewards. In fact, HGV driver jobs have become so popular with job seekers across the county because of the numerous advantages they provide. HGV drivers have the responsibility of assuring their safety as well as the others using the road. This article provides information on some of the top safety tips for HGV drivers.
Be aware of your surroundings while being prepared for what other drivers might do
HGV driving is quite tough. But HGV drivers play an important role in the country's economic development. When you get behind the wheel of an HGV, you are responsible for the safety of yourself as well as everyone around you. Hence, you should be aware of your surroundings at all times when you are behind the wheel of an HGV.
Keep your eyes open at all times and be vigilant. Check the mirrors of the HGV always and have a quick look around before you change lanes or turn the vehicle. Don't check the phone, eat, or play loud music while driving the vehicle since they can easily distract you. Be prepared with the correct safety procedures and take quick action if something goes wrong. It helps ensure the safety of everyone in the vehicle.
Avoid fatigue by taking regular breaks
You may be aware of the consequences of driving while fatigued. But many HGV drivers don't take the necessary steps to avoid driving their vehicle while fatigued. Get enough rest and take frequent breaks before you undertake a long journey in your HGV. Fatigue is a huge problem for HGV drivers because the vehicle is large and heavy and requires a lot of concentration and focus when driving. On the other hand, HGV drivers have to work long hours and sometimes drive throughout the night. It might be challenging to stay awake and alter at the wheel under such circumstances.
If you want to embark on a career as a professional HGV driver, then the first thing you need to do is obtain your HGV Category C licence.
Make sure the loads you carry are balanced and secure enough
As an HGV driver, you should make sure the loads you carry are correctly balanced. Unbalanced loads could have serious consequences as they can reduce vehicle control and stability. Such loads can also increase fuel consumption and damage the tyres and axles due to uneven weight distribution.
Pay close attention when loading and unloading your HGV in order to ensure that the load is correctly balanced. Make sure you carefully check the weight distribution of each package so that you don't experience any problems on the road. You should also know how much cargo you can safely carry in your HGV. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines or regulations to know this.
Keep the HGV well-maintained
HGV companies and drivers are responsible for keeping their commercial vehicles in good condition and maintaining them properly. It is important for the safe operation of the HGV as well as to prevent costly repairs and downtime during long journeys.
Carry out pre-journey checks regularly as part of a routine maintenance schedule before you drive the vehicle. You should also check the oil levels, coolant levels, brake fluid levels, filters, fuel tank, tyre pressure & wear, battery charge level, and all other parts of the HGV. All paperwork regarding the checks should be kept up to date.
Keeping your HGV in good condition is important to avoid accidents on long journeys due to faults that could have been avoided with a little service and maintenance on your part. A well-maintained HGV can be handled better in all driving conditions. It helps reduce traffic accidents involving HGVs.