Key Safety Guidelines to Stay Safe
In recent months, there have been several incidents involving trucks making left turns across four-lane intersections. These incidents frequently occur when trucks with trailers try to navigate turn lanes or medians too small to accommodate their length, causing the trailer or load to extend into oncoming traffic lanes. To prevent these incidents, continue reading to learn more about the risks, how to plan your route, and key safety guidelines.
Risks
Turn lanes and medians are typically designed for standard automobiles and often require modifications to accommodate large trucks and trailers. These larger vehicles need extended space to maneuver safely. When a truck or trailer stops in a median turn lane that is too short, parts of the vehicle can protrude into oncoming traffic, creating a significant safety risk. This not only endangers the truck driver but also puts other road users at considerable risk.
Know Your Route
When planning your trip, it is essential to acknowledge that crossing or turning into four lanes may sometimes be unavoidable, so it is best to plan your route ahead of taking off. Additionally, you should check for any restrictions, as some crossings may be prohibited. Assess the terrain to ensure there are no dips or hills that could impact your load, particularly if you are using lowboys. Finally, accurate measurement is also crucial; know the height of your unit and the length from the truck's tip to the end of the load.
Make Complete Turns or Crosses
When making a turn across traffic, it is crucial to commit fully to the maneuver, ensuring you can complete the entire turn safely. Avoid making partial crossings, especially since the median turn lane may not accommodate the length of your entire vehicle. Leaving any portion of your truck or load protruding into traffic can be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal. Additionally, always check for obstacles such as bicycles, pedestrians, or other vehicles to ensure the path is clear before proceeding.
Be Visible to Other Motorists
To enhance visibility and safety on the road, it is crucial to ensure all lights on your vehicle are on, regardless of whether the trailer is loaded or unloaded, as this can make you three times more visible. Regularly check your lights throughout the day to ensure they are functioning properly. Additionally, the reflective tape on the sides and rear of your trailer must be intact and clearly visible. If your vehicle has beacon lights, they should be in operation. Lastly, always adhere to state regulations by ensuring that any required flags or lights for your load are present and compliant.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Being prepared is essential in the event an incident occurs. Dash cameras allow drivers to prepare for the unexpected. Ensure cameras are correctly positioned. After every stop, take a moment to clean off any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the cameras. This maintenance routine will help maintain clear visibility and accurate performance, contributing to safer and more reliable monitoring.
We are here to keep you safe! For more jobsite safety tips, contact your local Risk Control Consultant. Click the button below to find a BITCO agent near you.
For information purposes only. BITCO's blog content does not address all potential circumstances and is not a substitute for business, safety, or legal consultation.
