Tanker trucks are specifically manufactured to suit the transport needs of the various goods that can be transported. However, their size, weight and liquid cargo make them more prone to accidents on the road if the necessary precautions are not taken when driving them. It is therefore crucial that drivers are aware of the possible risks and take preventive measures to ensure safety on the road.
→ To drive a road tanker safely you must:
- Because the liquid is constantly moving, special care must be taken when changing speed, starting and stopping, and when making a lane change.
- Attention should also be paid when cornering, where it is advisable to reduce speed.
- Be aware that braking at high speed at an emergency stop may cause the truck to overturn.
- It is essential to keep an additional and safe distance from other vehicles on the road in order to avoid accidents in sudden braking situations, as you will have enough space in case of an emergency. It is important to drive with caution and always be alert to anticipate any obstacles on the road.
- It is advisable to avoid abrupt manoeuvres in tankers due to their high propensity to skid and overturn. Therefore, it is necessary to drive with caution, maintaining an appropriate speed and making changes of direction and speed gradually and smoothly.
→ It is also very important to remain alert at the wheel, especially in situations of high traffic density and traffic jams, for which we give you the following tips:
- Use traffic signals properly: To indicate any manoeuvre, such as turn signals when changing lanes or exiting an exit.
- Be patient: Maintain patience and composure, as traffic jams can last for hours and sometimes the only solution is to wait for the road to clear.
- Be informed: Be informed about road conditions before setting off.
- Get enough rest: Make sure you get plenty of rest before driving to avoid fatigue and drowsiness at the wheel.
- Take regular breaks: Stop for short breaks every two hours to stretch your legs, relax and maintain your concentration.
- Eliminate possible distractions: Avoid any kind of distraction while driving, such as using a mobile phone, eating, drinking, etc.
- Increase the safety distance: Leave enough space between the truck and the vehicle in front, as well as maintain a constant speed, which will allow you to react appropriately in case of an emergency.
- Don’t constantly change lanes: Although you may think that changing lanes will help you go faster, changing lanes can make traffic more dangerous and less fluid, which in turn can slow traffic down.
- Maintain proper posture: When driving, with the seat properly adjusted, mirrors well positioned and a comfortable riding position.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings, traffic signs, surrounding traffic and road conditions.
- Be wary of the accordion effect: If you are stuck in a traffic jam and notice traffic starting to move, don’t be overconfident and stay alert, as you may have to brake again. If you accelerate sharply without having enough time to brake, you may cause an accident.
If you would like more information about dangerous goods transport or any of our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.