The process of backing a commercial tractor or trailer is among the most hazardous maneuvers truck drivers will ever have to perform. About 15% of all accidents that happen to professional truck drivers occur during backing, and backing accidents are virtually all the time preventable.
DC Merrett Transport is committed to the security of our drivers as well as the load of our customers and the safety of our equipment. To ensure safety we've incorporated these seven best practices for backing a tanker truck
Wide enough, high enough
Be aware of your clearances! Before you begin to back the truck, you must be sure that there is enough clearance for your trailer as well as enough room for you to back it in safely. If there's an inconvenient delay between the beginning and the end of your operation Check again. At the point you've completed the paperwork or make the deliveries into Qualcomm there could be someone who has been able to sneak in behind you.
The rear is the right-of-way
If a vehicle or other person is approaching your truck from behind Allow them to proceed to the rear before backing up.
Close needs care
Take care when backing up to docks or structures to prevent destruction to the vehicle, or to the customer's property. Safety is at a slower pace; and safety is our aim.
Mirrors don't have safety certificates
Mirrors aren't always as they seem. They shouldn't be dependent when backing. If you find yourself in an awkward situation and need to get out of the vehicle. If you need to, look around, and then take a second look.
Assistance isn't always useful.
Do not rely on anyone else to help you get signals or directions for backing. Spotters are useful, but they are not accountable for any collision and your truck is your responsibility.
Blindness is bad
Do not attempt to exit an alleyway that is blind if there's a better method of exiting. If you're considering going blind, because it appears simpler or faster, think again. Select slow and cautious each time.
Be aware of crossing traffic
Don't reverse at an intersection or waiting in traffic unless absolutely necessary. Give yourself enough room ahead of your vehicle to turn around and pull it forward stopped vehicles. If you are unsure, go out and check.
When you have an entire trailer of 60 feet with 40,000 lbs of freight, and an articulation to your back backing a truck may be a daunting task. However, with these 7 Top Tips to Back a Truck there's no reason it has to be.