Road Safety Tips – for Bus and Truck Drivers

Large buses and trucks need up to 120 yards (220 meters) to safely stop. Driving too fast for weather or road conditions or failing to slow down for curves or ramps create risks for rollovers, as well as crashes. Be aware of long stopping distances and make careful wide turns.

Buses and trucks need extra space and time to make wide, careful turns. Make turns carefully and signal appropriately. 

Fatal crashes are rising, and not wearing a seat belt is a key contributing factor. Wear your seat belt every time you drive or ride. Seat belts can save lives, reduce injuries, and allow drivers to stay inside and control their vehicles in the event of a crash.

The large size and weight of trucks and buses increase driving challenges, including acceleration, braking, and maneuverability. Large vehicles accelerate slower uphill and may gain speed quickly downhill. Drive at a safe speed, be aware of your surroundings, and never drive above the speed limit.

Get enough rest; don’t drive when you’re fatigued, feeling ill, or using medications (including over-the-counter medicine) that make you drowsy or dizzy.

Texting is among the worst driving distractions. It is illegal for any driver to text while driving, and mobile phones must be hands-free and dialed using no more than one button.

Eating, drinking, interacting with a navigational device, reading maps, or any other activity that takes the focus off the road can also be distracting. If you must attend to an activity other than driving, pull over – it’s not worth the risk.

Signal and brake early to give other drivers plenty of time to notice your intent. If you must pull off the road, use flashers, reflective triangles, and/or road flares to alert approaching drivers.

Make sure pre-trip safety inspections are complete before hitting the road, particularly for tyres and brakes. Check that your load is well-balanced and secure, as a shifting load can cause a rollover or loss of control. Loose materials can create road hazards.

Stay up-to-date on weather and road conditions, detours, and busy routes to plan appropriate driving time. Be aware that non-commercial navigation systems and apps may not provide warnings of height and weight limitations and other large vehicle restrictions.

Work zones present many hazards, like lane shifts, sudden stops, uneven road surfaces, moving workers and equipment, and more. Unfortunately, fatal work zone crashes continue to rise – so it’s vital to take work zone safety seriously:

• Slow down, maintain extra following space, and be prepared to stop.
• Obey all work zone signs and signals.
• Scan ahead for changing traffic patterns, and be alert to vehicles entering your blind spots.
• Keep a sharp eye out for road workers and flag crews.