As a commercial truck driver, there are certain “rules of the road” you should be aware of that go beyond what you might need to know when driving a standard passenger car. These “rules” can help you create a safer roadway for everyone, and also comply with laws and regulations for the trucking industry in the process.
So, what should every trucker in Flagstaff, AZ know? Here are just a few examples of what every trucker should know about these rules of the road.
Truck speed limits
Every highway and city street will have posted speed limits that apply to all vehicles. However, there are occasionally some highways that will have posted speed limits specifically geared toward semi trucks and other types of large commercial vehicles.
Make sure to pay attention to these signs, as they are frequently lower than the speed limits that are posted for passenger vehicles. If there are lower speed limits for trucks, get over to the right lane so other vehicles can pass you safely.
Move over laws
Just about every state has some version of a “move over law,” in which you are required whenever possible to move to an open adjacent lane if you see an emergency vehicle pulled over on the shoulder. However, there are some circumstances when this isn’t possible, due to there being too many other cars on the road to create an open adjacent lane. When it’s not possible to move over, you should slow down and pass the emergency vehicle carefully.
This law can also apply to truck drivers. When passing another truck or any other vehicle stranded on the side of the road, make sure to give them plenty of space.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving laws are the same for everyone on the road—phones, MP3 players and other devices are allowed in the vehicle, as are hands-free or Bluetooth phones, but you are not allowed to text while driving or use any device that will distract you while on the road.
Distracted driving is something of an epidemic in the United States at the moment. Many experts believe distracted driving to be just as dangerous as drunk driving, if not more so, because the amount of time it takes your eyes off the road.
In general, the best rule is to avoid using any devices while behind the wheel, because this is the only way to guarantee your full attention will be on the road and not on those devices.
Headlights and wipers
If you’re going on cross-country trips, it’s important to be aware of the individual state laws regarding traffic issues. One that some states have is a headlight and windshield wiper law, requiring all drivers to have their headlights turned on anytime their wipers are also on.
Even if the state doesn’t require this, it’s still a good practice to implement to make the roadways safer for everyone in inclement weather conditions.
For more information about what to know to become a trucker in Flagstaff, AZ and some key “rules of the road,” or to schedule truck repair service, reach out to Emergency Response – Truck, Trailer & RV Repair today.