May
26
Do You Know The BASICs Of Truck Driving Safety
Trucks and truck driving have been studied by various groups over the years, all trying to find ways to predetermine trucking accidents. When it comes to truck driving safety, we all applaud measures that are well founded, workable, and which do lead to fewer accidents. One acronym that has risen its head in recent years is BASICs – an acronym for Behavioral Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories. So what are they and how do they relate to truck driving safety?
BASICs cover seven areas that are most likely to cause truck accidents. The seven areas are worth noting as a truck driver since you will be responsible for most if not all of these areas once you commence work as a truck driver. The seven areas are:
- Unsafe driving – Driving in an unsafe manner either intentionally or through lack of care
- Fatigue - Generally caused by not taking the required breaks from driving
- Driver fitness – This covers a number of areas including physical, mental, and health-related problems
- Controlled substances and alcohol – Drugs and alcohol, especially combined, can impair the judgment of drivers
- Vehicle maintenance – A poorly maintained vehicle (especially tires) is one of the major causes of accidents today
- Cargo related – Poorly secured loads lead to many accidents as the load shifts while cornering or braking
- Crash history – If a driver has a crash history, then the chances of them crashing again goes up
That’s an interesting list yet, when looked at closely, is really commonsense. As a driver, you need plenty of rest; you shouldn’t be under the influence of any substance; you should be driving a well-maintained vehicle with load properly secured; and you should be driving safely. If you have a crash history, then it may be time to unlearn some bad habits and to develop some good ones. A comprehensive truck driving training program may help to unlearn those bad habits and make you a better driver. You should also look at the other six factors – they may be playing a part as well.
