You’re fairly new to driving the big rigs, and you finally found a great deal on a used heavy duty truck in Texas. You saved a lot of money over a new truck, and the dealer helped you find the most agreeable terms for financing. Now it’s time to get behind the wheel and get going. Even though you went over all the right things in truck driving school, it’s important to remember these helpful tips that can make you a better driver.
Keep a Constant Watch on the Trailer
Many trailers in Texas today are 53 feet long, and it’s easy to run over curbs and hit things if you aren’t careful all the time. When you glance in your mirrors to check out traffic behind you, take a few seconds to make sure your trailer is fine, and it’s not over the white line on the edge of the road. If it’s over too far, take corrective action slowly. You don’t want to make any sudden movements while pulling a large trailer because it might start to fishtail.
Take a Final Glance
Your vehicle is something to be proud of, whether it’s a used heavy duty truck or a new one, it deserves a final look after you get out of it. While you’re looking, check to see if you forgot anything. Maybe the trailer lights are still on, or you’re not parked as straight as you thought. If you make this a habit, you’ll catch some errors from time to time.
You May Have to Hit Wildlife from Time to Time
So many drivers wreck their trucks avoiding animals on Texas highways. It’s better to hit an animal than demolish a $20,000 used heavy duty truck or a $180,000 new truck. You also could get seriously injured, so don’t take chances.
