Mountain driving is challenging, but even more so for truck drivers, as semi-trucks are much wider and heavier than cars, making turns and steep hills more hazardous. As experienced a driver as you may be, here are some tips that can help you have a safer mountain drive.
Inspect Your Truck
Inspections are standard for truck drivers, but if you know you’ll be driving in the mountains you’ll want to be more diligent about your inspection. Complete your standard check of fluids and tires, but also check for any wear and tear that could be problematic. Another item to check is tire chains. Even if you don’t expect to need them, you want to be sure they are in good condition just in case you end up needing them.
Fill Up
Before beginning that mountain drive, stop and fill up your gas tank. You may expect to come across a gas station later in the trip, but you run the chance of inflated gas prices. If your trip takes longer than expected, you also run the risk of getting stranded with no gas, which will impact your trip. It is best to just be sure you have more gas than you think you need to avoid problems.
Use Rest Areas
Rest areas are a great resource to take advantage of. This is an opportune time to do a follow-up inspection to be sure everything is still working properly. If you have time, this is also a chance to rest your eyes or have a snack. Don’t risk your safety by driving on mountain roads when you are tired or distracted by an empty stomach.
Take Your Time
Getting up or down the mountain is not a race. Staying below the speed limit and allowing other drivers to pass can help keep the road safe for all involved. Going below the speed limit will also make breaking and downshifting easier on your truck, helping to avoid premature brake issues.
If you find yourself needing a tow truck, call Barnett’s Towing. We offer 24/7 towing services throughout Arizona and we have the special equipment needed for big rig towing. Call us at (800) 722-2302.
