You can never be too safe behind the wheel when you’re driving a big rig. The most common cause of automobile accidents is distracted driving. This is the same whether you are driving a semi-truck or a compact car. Moose Jaw Truck Shop will keep your big rig in shape so you can count on its safety and reliability. We are also going to list many things that constitute distracted driving below as a refresher course for your driving safety.
Texting
Texting is at the top of the list when it comes to distracted driving. When you take your eyes off the road for five seconds to glance at a text message, you’ve just figuratively driven 100 yards with your eyes closed if you are driving 55 miles per hour. As a commercial driver, you cannot text and drive. You can lose your license if you cause an accident because you were distracted.
Talking on the Phone
Even if you talk hands-free, talking on the phone is also distracted driving. You may think you are in control of your big rig, but when you are talking to someone else, part of your attention is on them, even if they aren’t in your cab. Turn off your cell phone when you are on the road. This helps prevent the urge to reply to texts or to telephone someone.
Eating/Drinking
We know it’s tough to drive long hauls. You need to have plenty of water throughout the day to keep you alert behind the wheel. Still, eating behind the wheel can be very distracting. Pull over for your meals. If you need to take a swig from a water bottle, make sure you do it quickly and be aware of your surroundings no matter what. Keep the lid off the water bottle so you don’t have to unscrew it while you are driving.
Fiddling With the Stereo
Fiddling with the stereo, the CB system, or any other entertainment system is also distracted driving. Decide what you want to listen to before you hit the road and get everything going at that time. Make sure that it is only audio and not video to avoid being tempted to look away from the road.
Setting the Navigation
This also holds true for your navigation system. Set it before you begin driving your rig on its route. Do not make changes to the route or set a new route while you are driving. Pullover to a complete stop if you need to reset your GPS.
Moose Jaw Truck Shop in Moose Jaw, SK, can’t help you behind the wheel, but we can make sure your rig is always 100 percent road-ready. Come in for an inspection before your next route.
