Top Tips For Staying Safe as a HGV Driver
When it comes to HGV driver safety, it is mandatory that you submit yourself for a HGV driver medical to make sure you are fit and healthy for the road. However, keeping yourself safe does not stop there.
There are also several safety measurements that you can take to ensure you remain safe and secure at all times whilst delivering goods.
So, what top tips do we have for total safety whilst on the roads as a heavy goods vehicle driver?
Plan Your Route Ahead of Schedule
Whenever possible, try to plan your route ahead of schedule so you know exactly where you are going. As well as planning your route, try to change and modify it when possible to combat any would be criminals becoming aware of your route.
We know it can be difficult to know exactly where you are going as we live in the age of satellite navigation, but a rough understanding can keep you safer and reduce delivery times.
Always Make Sure Your Vehicle is Secure
Whether you are leaving your vehicle unattended in order to pay for petrol or you are leaving your doors unlocked during driving, being extra vigilant with the security of your HGV is a must.
A HGV driver medical cannot help you stay safe here, your wits and memory can do though.
Take Regular Breaks from Driving
No matter how fit and healthy you are deemed after your HGV driver medical, you still need to ensure you take regular breaks from driving whilst on the road. We recommend at least some sort of break every 4 hours, whether that be for a coffee a snack or just some fresh air.
Taking breaks keeps you sharp and aware whilst on the road so do not overlook them.
Overnight Parking should be in Approved Locations
Avoid the use of dark, unlit areas in isolated locations. These sort of areas attract thieves, criminals and wrong doers. Look for the ‘park mark’ which indicates that an area has been checked beforehand and vetted by the police.
These areas have high security standards and are the safest location to store your vehicle, try to park your vehicle in a way that restricts access to the rear of your trailer.
Remain Secure and Call For Help In The Case of a Robbery
In the very unfortunate instance that you find yourself victim to a robbery, remain calm and lock all of the doors within your cab. Once they are locked, we suggest beeping your horn to attract attention and to deter the criminals.
However, your safety is the most important thing so if you cannot do so safely, just focus on remaining secure.
Contact Your HGV Driver Medical Provider
If you want to remain as safe as possible on the road, contact Manchester Medicals for your mandatory HGV medical. We will make sure that you are fit and healthy enough to transport goods and lawful in doing so.