Trucking businesses have the critical task of ensuring that goods are transported safely and efficiently to their destinations. But the nature of the trucking business also means many potential risks that need to be managed.
There are several ways in which these businesses can ensure safety while also reducing costs and increasing efficiency. This article will discuss some of the key ways in which trucking businesses can improve safety.
1. Reviewing driver safety records
Most of the responsibility for safety in the trucking industry rests on the shoulders of the drivers. It is therefore essential for businesses to review the safety records of their drivers regularly. It would be best if you looked at both the number of accidents and incidents that a driver has been involved in and the severity of these accidents.
There are many ways to obtain this information, including:
- Checking with the driver’s previous employers
- Ordering a motor vehicle report (MVR)
- Checking with the driver’s insurance company
Depending on the results of this review, you may decide to take a different course of action. For example, if a driver has a clean record, you may choose to give them more responsibility or assign them to a route that is known to be safe. On the other hand, if a driver has a history of accidents, you may decide to provide them with additional training or reassign them to a less demanding route.
2. Always have a lawyer on call
Trucking businesses are often involved in litigation, whether it is due to an accident or some other issue. As such, it is essential to have a lawyer on call who can help you deal with these issues. A lawyer can also help you to negotiate contracts, which can be a complex process.
When accidents happen, a lawyer can help you determine who is at fault and what the next steps should be. You can find a truck accident lawyer online or ask for recommendations from other trucking businesses. You can also check with your insurance company to see if they have any suggestions.
If you are involved in an accident, the first thing you should do is to call your lawyer. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action to take and will help to ensure that your rights are protected.
3. Use technology to your advantage
Technology can be an excellent asset for trucking businesses in terms of safety and efficiency. For example, GPS tracking can be a valuable tool for trucking businesses. It can help you to track the location of your vehicles at all times, which can be helpful if an accident does occur. GPS tracking can also help you plan routes more effectively, saving time and money.\
Another example of technology that you can use is dash cams. Dash cams can help provide evidence in an accident, which can help determine who is at fault. Some dash cams also have features that can help to improve safety, such as lane departure warnings.
Additionally, you may want to consider using an electronic logging device (ELD). ELDs are devices that track a driver’s hours of service (HOS). You can use this information to ensure that drivers are not driving for too long, which can improve safety. ELDs are required by law in the United States, so it is essential to ensure that you are using a compliant device.
4. Improve your communication
Communication is essential for any business but vital for businesses operating across long distances. There are several ways to improve communication in the trucking industry, including:
- Having a central dispatch system
- Using two-way radios
- Using a fleet management system
A central dispatch system can be a valuable tool for coordinating your drivers’ activities. It can help to ensure that everyone is aware of their responsibilities and can help to avoid confusion. You can also use two-way radios to communicate with drivers, which can be helpful for coordination purposes. Additionally, you can use two-way radios to get updates on traffic conditions or changes in the delivery schedule.
A fleet management system can also be a valuable tool for communication. A fleet management system can help you track the location of your vehicles and provide you with information on the status of your deliveries. This information can improve communication between the office and your drivers.
The trucking industry is a vital part of the economy and plays a crucial role in the supply chain. However, the trucking industry is also risky, and accidents can occur. As such, it is essential to take steps to ensure the safety of your business. By following the tips above, you can help to reduce the risk of accidents and improve the security of your business.