Truck driver beginner tips

 This is my list of truck driver beginner tips on how to safely drive a semi in Canada or U.S.. These truck driver tips will help you pass your class 1 beginners or CDl license. So lets begin!

•       A driver can anticipate a change in traffic signals when approaching an intersection by looking at the pedestrian crossing lights. If the signal telling the pedestrian not to cross is on or flashing, be prepared for the traffic signal to change.

•   If your vehicle was 11.5 m long you would use a 4 second time interval with ideal road and traffic conditions. With a tractor trailer you would round out the length of your vehicle to the nearest meter and divide by three to determine your count. Example: if your truck and trailer are 14.4m, round to 15. 15 divide by 3 equals 5 second count.

• ·        When picking a safe driving speed the driver should consider that truck and trailer combination units need a longer stopping distance than most other vehicles because of the weight of the vehicle. Brake adjustments, tire condition and inflation along with load balance and weight are critical for safe stopping. The speed at which a vehicle travels should depend upon road and traffic conditions, but the driver must also try to match the travelling speed with the surrounding traffic while staying within the speed limit.

• ·        A driver who travels slower than the traffic tempo may increase the chance of an accident from behind or the sides. Other drivers may become impatient and follow too closely or try to overtake when it is not safe to do so. They may cut in after passing, leaving the slow moving driver with little or no room for a quick stop.

• ·        A driver who travels faster than the traffic flow increases the chance of an accident. This could be from not maintaining a safe following distance with the traffic ahead and not leaving any space in front for a fast stop. This increases the chance of making a wrong decision.

• ·        The most effective way to deal with a tailgater is to make it easier for them to pass. The tailgater is easier to deal with if they are ahead rather than behind.

• ·        The best way to reduce stopping distance is by reducing your speed.

• ·        The danger zone of a vehicle can be described as the area directly in front of the vehicle in which the vehicle cannot be stopped. Reduce speed and keep brake pedal covered.

• ·        When approaching an intersection drivers can take defense measures such as: Never enter limited view intersection at a speed at which you cannot stop your vehicle safely should you need to do so. Do not assume you have the right away, even when it is enforced by traffic signs or traffic lights. Look left and right before entering any intersection. Check for violators who may run a traffic light.  Look well ahead for a “stale” green light to avoid travelling through the intersection late. Position your vehicle into the proper lane well before the turn at the intersection. Do not depend on other drivers to signal or execute their turns correctly.

• ·        If the weight of the vehicle is doubled, the braking force must be doubled to be able to stop in the same distance.