Sacramento Movers Share 8 Safety Tips For Driving A Rental Truck

 For many people who do a self-move, one of the challenges is driving the rented moving truck. Challenges arise in that this vehicle is much bigger and heavier than the average car as well as lacking a rear view. When it’s time to get behind the wheel of a moving truck be sure to follow a few safety guidelines.

 (Photo Credit: Lera Blog)

1. Beware of turns. Since moving trucks and trailers are longer and wider than the average vehicle, it’s important to give yourself a little extra room on turns.

2. Decrease speed. Pushing the speed limit in the fast lane is not such a good idea with moving trucks and trailers. Keep in the right hand lanes and watch for sign indicating what the speed limit for trucks is in that area.

3. Increase the space cushion. Larger vehicles take longer to slow down, especially if they are burdened with a heavy load. Increase the follow distance from the vehicle ahead of you so that if any sudden stops occur you will have time to slow down and avoid rear end collisions.

4. Break early. Be conscious of upcoming stops or slowdowns. Begin to break earlier than you would in a car.

5. Use a spotter. It’s always wise to have someone in the passenger seat who can help navigate as well as direct you in and out of parking spaces. Anytime you must back up, your spotter should stand behind the truck and help guide you.

6. Watch overhead clearances. Beware of low canopies, overpasses, bridges, drive-thru restaurants and banks, tree branches, and parking garages. Watch out for signs prohibiting truck traffic. Find out how tall the truck you are driving is and look out for signs signaling what clearance is permitted.

7. Watch for road signs. Pay attention to signs including truck weigh stations and check brakes signs.

8. Parking and safety cones. If possible park the truck in drive-through parking spaces. If none are available and a regular parking space is all that is available, try to find one out of the way so that you do not obstruct traffic. Use safety cones anytime the truck is parked in an unusual spot or anywhere that may obstruct traffic. Don’t forget to set the emergency break!

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Sacramento employs a staff of over 40 Full-Time Movers and Drivers, with a fleet of 10 trucks. We have performed home and business moving services in and around the Greater Sacramento area for almost 10 years. Our award winning services include full service moving and packing services and we also sells boxes and packing supplies.

With comments or questions contact Carolyn Durkee, Marketing Coordinator at the Sacramento office of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® at 916-852-7411 or contact us here.