Custom Headache Racks, Safe Loading and More: 4 Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

Custom headache rack? Check. Three points of contact? Check. Proper loading? Check. This is the type of list that should be going through your head every time you prepare for a trip. Because let’s face it: trucking is serious business. Even on a sunny day driving a straight, deserted highway, things can go wrong unless you have all your ducks in a row. So here are some safety tips to keep in mind so that you can have the most worry-free journeys possible.

1. Custom Headache Racks

Always have a custom headache rack on your semi. A headache rack is safety priority number one. This is because it keeps you from being crushed should the load you are carrying ever shift towards the front of your truck. This has been known to happen with trucks carrying steel, logs, and more when drivers hit the brakes too hard, causing the load to be propelled forward. And remember: the size and make of your vehicle are an important consideration. Make sure the headache rack fits properly so no accidents can happen due to improper fitting. At Trebor Manufacturing, you can find all kinds of semi headache racks and custom headache racks: standard headache racks, enclosed headache racks, logging headache racks and closet headache racks. Find out more about how a custom headache rack could save your life.

2. Safe Loading

Safe loading is essential, for yourself and for your truck. As far as you are concerned, remember that your back and knees are the only ones you’ve got. Perhaps you think you can lift most of your cargo, but don’t push yourself. Ask for help, or even better, use a forklift. As for the load itself, remember that it’s always safer to stack things low and spread out, rather than stacking things high in one spot. All the weight in one place will make your truck lag, whereas spreading it out will help you save on fuel. And once you’re done loading all that weight, thank your lucky stars for the custom headache rack that keeps you and the load safely apart.

3. Three Points of Contact Rule

Many drivers are familiar with the three points of contact rule, stipulating that your body should always have three points of contact with the truck. This could be two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. This helps you remember to disembark slowly and cautiously, rather than jumping suddenly from your truck to the ground and injuring yourself. When you’re driving, you get lulled into a sort of autopilot mode, and exiting the vehicle is a shock to your body, especially if you miss your step!

4. Acknowledge Your Limitations

Just because you have a custom headache rack and your load is evenly spread doesn’t mean you are immune to hazards. One of the biggest road risks can be you! Pay attention to your body. Feeling cramped? Perhaps a quick stop and a brisk walk are what you need. Remember to move your body whenever possible. Additionally, remember that you are not Superman – even truck drivers need to sleep. Although you may feel confident in your driving abilities, remember that most accidents are caused by seasoned drivers who have become overconfident, and therefore don’t listen to the signals their body is sending them. In addition to your fatigue level, be cognizant of your external limitations such as weather, terrain, and blind spots. Be attentive, and it could save you your life.

About Trebor

Trebor Manufacturing is proud to be serving dealers, retailers, manufacturers and distributors in the trucking business, including truck parts dealers, across North America. Please feel free to call us, contact us or request a quote in regards to any of our semi-truck and trailer accessories, custom truck equipment and other products.

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Check out Trebor’s most popular semi truck accessories: aluminum tool boxes or semi headache racks