No one enjoys renting a U-Haul, but sometimes it can’t be avoided. Whether you are moving or just transporting a large item, renting one of these trucks is your best option.
Unfortunately, most people don’t have a chance to practice driving a truck before it’s time to drive one. We learn to drive in small passenger cars, and making the switch to a large vehicle can be tricky. Because of this, there are potential risks and a higher likelihood of accidents due to inexperience with these larger vehicles. Large trucks are heavier and bigger, which affects visibility and your ability to maneuver and stop quickly.
It’s important to learn safe driving practices so that you reduce the chances of crashing your U-haul, which could result in damage to your own property, damage to other’s property, or even an injury.
So before renting your next U-Haul, be sure to check out the following safety tips from a truck accident attorney in Phoenix.
Familiarize Yourself With the Vehicle
It’s important to truly understand the size and height of the truck before you begin driving. Your sense of how far you are from other objects will be different in a truck this size. Once you’re in the driver’s seat, check your mirrors, seat adjustment, and controls before you drive.
It’s also crucial to perform a safety inspection before you hit the road. Check out the tires, lights, brakes, and fluid levels to avoid any sort of mechanical failure. You should also make sure the back door is securely closed and locked so your items don’t fall out.
Keep in mind that trucks have more blind spots than regular cars. When you get into the driver’s seat, take note of your blind spots and adjust your mirrors as best as possible for visibility.
Plan Your Route
When planning out your route with your U-haul, make sure to avoid low clearance areas. There are online resources that will tell you whether there are bridges, overpasses, or tunnels with height restrictions on your route. If you know the area well, it’s also best to avoid any narrow streets or streets with tight turns. You don’t want to end up clipping anyone’s side mirror. You can find GPS apps that cater to large trucks.
It’s also smart to plan your fuel stops and breaks, assuming you’ll be driving for a while. Look up gas stations in advance that can accommodate large trucks. Scheduling regular breaks is always a good idea so that you can rest and avoid accidents due to driver fatigue.
Load the Truck Properly
One thing that may be unfamiliar to those who have never driven a truck is the concept of distributing the weight evenly. Heavy items should be placed toward the front of the truck to avoid the truck tipping or losing control.
Securely tie down items to prevent shifting during transit. The sudden movement of items in the back of the truck could cause an accident.
Drive with Caution
You will need to adjust your driving habits if you’re driving a U-haul. Trucks require wider turns to accommodate the length of the truck and to avoid side-swiping other vehicles. You will also need to allow for extra stopping distance due to the truck’s weight, in order to prevent a rear-end collision.
It’s best to adhere closely to the speed limit or even driver slower and stay in the right lane. Now is not the time to show off your speed. If the weather is foggy or rainy, this is even more important.
Parking and Unloading
Parking can be tricky when driving a large van or truck. Try and choose parking spots that have ample space for maneuvering your vehicle. Use spotters if necessary to guide the truck into tight spaces.
When unloading the truck, you’ll want to utilize proper moving supplies like dollies, straps, and padding. Ensure that your items are stable and unloaded in an organized manner to prevent the risk of injury. Lifting large items improperly is a common cause of back injuries. As you unload the items from your U-haul, check your surroundings for obstacles and make sure you have a clear path to your destination.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your experience driving a U-Haul truck is as safe and stress-free as possible. Remember, taking the time to familiarize yourself with the vehicle, plan your route, load the truck properly, drive with caution, and park and unload safely can make all the difference in preventing accidents and ensuring a smooth move.
We hope you found this blog post on 5 Essential Tips For Safe U-Haul Truck Driving useful. Be sure to check out our post on How Transportation Has Upgraded Over the Years for more great information!
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