As a commercial trucker you know you’ll eventually have to deal with a breakdown. It just comes with the job description. And if it happens while you are driving on the highway, we don’t have to remind you how hazardous that can be.
In this post, we will offer some helpful reminders for keeping yourself and others safe if you find yourself on the highway with a disabled truck.
Find a Safe Place to Pull Over
It may not be simple, but if you are experiencing problems, you should make every effort to pull over to the side of the road and onto the hard shoulder. You may be able to coast off the road or off ramp, but if not ,you should contact an emergency road service to tow your vehicle someplace safe.
Put Your Hazard and Reflective Lights On
You’ll want to make sure other drivers notice you and that you are having an emergency on the road. Make sure to turn on your hazard lights and any reflective demarcations you might carry such as a triangle or flares. Even during the day, motorists can miss a broken-down Big Rig on the side of the road, and it will also make it easier for emergency road service or highway patrol to locate you.
Stay with Your Truck
It goes without saying that you don’t want to be standing near a live lane on the highway. Distracted drivers are becoming more and more prevailent and you run the risk of being hit. If there is ever an accident, such as being rear ended, you are better protected by staying inside your vehicle.
Put Your Hazard Lights On
You’ll want to warn other drivers that you’re a danger on the road, so turn on your 4-ways and grab your reflective triangle, especially if it’s dark. Even during the day, motorists might wander and miss the massive broken-down truck by the side of the road — or be preoccupied with figuring out what occurred. It will also make it simpler for the emergency road service to locate you.
If it’s dark outside, ensure sure your side lights are switched on as well. You’ll want to stand out as much as possible so that you can be seen. Also, keep your caution triangle away from the hard shoulder.
Let Your Employer Know
As quickly as possible after the incident, contact your office, employer, or dispatch to aid with roadside assistance and let others who might be depending on you know of any delays or other.
Call for Help
Don’t hesitate to phone 911 if you can’t reach your employer or your emergency road service provider. If you’re in a tough spot, they can dispatch someone to your location to secure the area until emergency service can arrive..
GPS and Apps
There is an app for everything nowadays it seems. , There are plenty of road assistance apps to choose from, including GPS apps that will pinpoint your location, offer directions, and let you know of road conditions and traffic.
Don’t Put Off Repairs or Maintenance
The best way to keep the chances of a breakdown from happening is staying on top of your truck’s maintenance and having any minor issues repaired before they become big problems. When it comes to your livelihood and your safety don’t allow your truck and/or trailer to be at risk. Here at SE Smith we offer a variety of truck and trailer services from regular maintenance, BIT and DOT inspections, a full menu of repair services, and mobile repair services. Whenever or where ever you need us we’ll be there so don’t be afraid to contact us directly.