Did you know that more than 80% of the towns in our country have EVERYTHING trucked in? Though these communities don't produce any goods of their own—they can buy the same goods as people in large industrial centers. They have dedicated long-haul truck drivers to thank.
There are over three million men and women who work in the trucking industry. They serve a critical role in our economy—transporting products from place to place.
It can be grueling work. And it can be a very thankless job.
One difficult thing about being a truck driver is dealing with unsafe driving behavior on the nation's streets and highways. Let's look at some of the driving behaviors truckers wish other drivers would stop doing.
Not Leaving A Safe Following Distance
Truck drivers leave several car lengths in front of them so they have a safe slowing/stopping distance. They wish we all understood that the space in front of them is not an invitation for cars to pull in front.
"A normal passenger vehicle such as a car or small pickup truck will normally take approximately 316 feet to come to a complete stop after recognizing the need to stop. In comparison, a semi truck takes about 525 feet before it comes to a complete stop after recognizing the need to stop."
Switching Lanes Without Using A Blinker
Using a blinker helps everyone on the road know what you are doing. It takes a lot longer to slow down an 80,000-pound rolling juggernaut, so make sure the driver knows that you are changing lanes.
Using A Cell Phone While Driving
No one admits to playing on their phones while they drive. But truckers know better. They are up high with a clear view down into vehicles. They see drivers texting and playing games on their phone all the time. When are we going to learn???!!
Not Giving Them Respect
Some truckers say they are treated disrespectfully by men and women they encounter along the way. This is a shame. ATA President Chris Spear sums it up:
“These men and women are safety-minded professionals who deserve our respect and praise. We’re fortunate that truck drivers have dedicated their careers to delivering critical goods like medicine, food and school books.” American Trucking Association President and CEO Chris Spear
The service team at I-86 Truck & Auto Repair recognizes the dedicated road warriors who make our abundant lifestyle possible.
Safe driving and quality automotive service go hand in hand. If your "small rig" (foreign or domestic passenger car or truck) needs service, call us at 716-665-2501 for an appointment.