Whoever thought trucking was easy has never been around a truck. The risks that can come from working as a truck driver are many. And, although most companies have risk management teams or insurance plans, that might not be enough in some cases.
If you are a private contractor or simply can’t afford to go on an extended period off work due to an accident, you may want to take the matter into your own hands.
After all, taking the necessary precautions to avoid unnecessary risks favors everybody!
Trucking companies should also make their part. Usually, merely complying with the minimum requirements of the law. Effective risk management strategies are necessary, and they will even take the carrier company to a new level of safety and employee care.
Individual truck drivers should also have a good understanding of all the risks they face in their job. Analyzing the possible risks associated with driving a truck and having a well-prepared reaction plan are key ingredients to avoid further complications or issues.
It is important to be active in the risk management area as it will help reduce future problems. Some of the most common risk management strategies include policies like the Following Distance Policy. Special programs to learn how to react to situations are also very relevant. Some examples include how to effectively and safely handle an accident incident or the Active Shooter program.
When talking about trucking accidents, there are many people that could be held accountable for any possible victims. This goes from the driver of the truck to the owner of the vehicle or the company.
And this can also include the manufacturer of the truck or any of its parts that might have contributed to the accident. The shipper in charge of loading the truck can also be affected in the incident involves improper packing or loading.
It is really important for truckers to be able to talk to their company if they feel they are driving under unsafe circumstances. So, company policies should protect the driver and support the employee if they report any safety issues.
If you are an independent contractor, you should also be able to communicate with the specific customer in case any issue arises. And it is very important to always keep safety in mind. Even if you have been driving for a long time, nobody is exempt from having an accident.
In addition to owning a good insurance plan in case an incident can’t be avoided, truck drivers should always follow their commons sense.
We have also made a brief listing of a few pieces of advice that will keep you safe on the road.
To begin with, you should always take care of yourself, and that includes both mentally and physically.
Secondly, you should also make sure to take care of and properly maintain your truck or work vehicle.
Then, you should remember to always follow the rules on the road. This can mean being aware of blind spots, slowing down when passing work zones and always keeping your distance.
Finally, remember that properly fastening your seatbelt and sticking to the authorized speeds in each road can save yours and many other lives.
So, make sure to drive safe and enjoy your time on the road!
What do you think about risk management at your company? Do you always take the necessary precautions? Let us know if you have any further advice for your fellow truckers in the comment section!
