| |
Ten Tips from Professional Drivers
Truck and bus drivers are among the most skilful on the road –
some of them have driven more than 1½ million km (a million miles)
without collision. Here are some of their ideas for driving safely:
- Adjust the seat so you are 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10 inches) from the
steering wheel but able to press the pedals firmly. Sit up straight.
- Fasten your seat belt snugly. In addition to its safety factor, a
snug belt will help keep you sitting erect, with less back fatigue on
long runs.
- See that rear-view mirrors are correctly set for you.
- Use your eyes – keep them moving ahead, to the mirrors, to
the sides – and they will give advance warning of situations that
quickly become emergencies.
- Always leave an "out" – space for possible evasive
action – in adjoining lanes, front, rear and shoulder.
- Watch the vehicle in front and the brake lights of the car ahead
of it for extra time in stopping.
- Learn to anticipate potential collisions. An expert driver "expects"
the car following the bus to suddenly swerve around it.
- Use the horn whenever you are not sure the other driver sees you.
The idea that a good driver does not have to use the horn is dangerous
and wrong.
- At night, drive about 15 km/h (10 mph) below your usual daytime speed.
- Realize, as pro drivers do, that you have passed the peak of your
efficiency after five or six hours at the wheel. Allow for it, as the
pros do, by slowing down and taking it easy.
<< Return to the Resources - Main
Page
|
