Brake safety is vital to staying safe on the road as well as avoiding fines and big repair bills. According to research and analysis published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), brake problems are the top associated factor for large truck crashes in the U.S. With that in mind, there are many things you can do to prepare your brakes for any driving situation that might arise.
Here are some of our top brake safety preparation tips for truck drivers
Always perform pre-trip inspections.
Before you head out on the road, perform a complete inspection of your truck’s brakes. Make sure they are in good working condition and free from any damage or wear that might impact their effectiveness. Whenever necessary, immediately find a brake replacement near me to avoid further brake problems. Also, check your brake fluids and brake adjustments to ensure they are in the correct range.
Keep tires in good condition.
Make sure that your load is evenly distributed to prevent excess stress on the truck’s brakes. An unevenly placed load on a worn-out set of tires can result in reduced braking power and control.
Stay vigilant on the road and pay attention to all driving conditions.
Hazardous road conditions can include rain, snow, ice, or debris that may be present on the roads. Even changing weather conditions have an impact on your braking system’s ability to stop you in time when needed. Be alert and make sure you are always prepared for any situation that might arise while out driving. Keeping yourself and others safe is the number one priority.
Avoid heavy braking whenever possible by anticipating road conditions and traffic ahead of time. The more frequently and harder you brake, the faster your truck’s brakes will wear out.
Always maintain space between your vehicle and other vehicles on the road.
When behind the wheel, you should always leave enough room to stop in case there is a situation where a vehicle in front of you slows down or stops too quickly.. The general rule of thumb is to keep a minimum following distance that allows you to see the vehicle in front of you as well as all surrounding areas. This will help avoid sudden stops or collisions with other vehicles and ensure the safety of those around you on the road.
Schedule regular fleet vehicle maintenance.
Regular fleet vehicle maintenance will ensure your brakes are always functioning properly, allowing them to last longer and save you money in the long run. Spending a little time now performing routine maintenance can save you from having to spend much more later down the line!
Conclusion
Brake safety is essential for every truck driver’s health and well-being as well as the lives of everyone on the road. Follow these tips whenever possible to stay safe and always be prepared. And if there is a need, search for a ‘brake replacement near me’ so you can get back on the road with your brakes working like new!
