As an HGV driver, you are at the heart of the UK’s logistics network. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities as you navigate motorways, country lanes, and urban roads. However, staying safe on the road is crucial, not just for yourself but also for those around you. At Premier Placement Services, we understand how important our drivers are to us and the vital role they play in keeping goods moving across the country. Your safety and wellbeing are always our top priority, and we’ve put together some essential safety tips to ensure every journey is a safe one.
1. Perform Regular Vehicle Checks
Before setting off on any journey, it’s vital to check your vehicle thoroughly. Key areas include:
• Tyres: Ensure they are at the correct pressure and have the required tread depth.
• Lights: Make sure all your lights (headlights, indicators, brake lights) are functioning correctly.
• Brakes: Check for responsiveness, and listen for any unusual sounds.
• Load Security: Confirm that your load is secure and balanced. Shifting loads can make your vehicle unstable.
At Premier Placement Services, we encourage our drivers to conduct these checks routinely, providing the support and resources needed to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, view our daily vehicle checks overview here
2. Drive to Weather Conditions
UK weather can be unpredictable, especially during the winter months. From rain to fog, snow to ice, weather conditions can change rapidly and impact your ability to drive safely.
• Slow down: Wet or icy roads increase stopping distances. Reducing your speed allows for better control in adverse conditions.
• Use your lights: In fog or heavy rain, ensure your lights are on so that other drivers can see you.
• Plan ahead: Listen to weather forecasts before you set out and plan your route accordingly, avoiding potentially hazardous areas if possible.
Premier Placement Services recognises the importance of adapting to changing weather conditions and always prioritises the safety of our drivers, offering advice and flexible schedules when adverse weather strikes.
3. Take Regular Breaks
Fatigue is one of the most significant risks for HGV drivers. Long hours behind the wheel can lead to tiredness, affecting your reaction times and concentration.
• Adhere to legal driving hours: The UK government sets strict rules on how long HGV drivers can be on the road without breaks. Ensure you are aware of these regulations and stick to them.
• Listen to your body: If you feel tired, take a break. Don’t push through fatigue, as this can lead to dangerous driving situations.
• Stay hydrated and eat regularly: Drink water and consume healthy snacks to keep your energy levels stable throughout the day.
At Premier Placement Services, your wellbeing is our priority. We encourage our drivers to take regular breaks and look after themselves during long shifts, ensuring you remain sharp and alert on the road.
4. Maintain Safe Distances
HGVs are much heavier and take longer to stop than standard cars. Always leave a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front, allowing enough space to react in case of an emergency.
• In normal conditions: Keep at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front.
• In adverse conditions: Increase this gap to at least four seconds in wet weather or up to ten seconds in icy conditions.
Keeping a safe distance ensures you have time to react and prevents accidents, which is why Premier Placement Services always advises our drivers to follow these best practices.
5. Stay Alert to Your Surroundings
Whether you’re driving through urban areas, motorways, or rural roads, it’s essential to stay alert to what’s happening around you.
• Watch for pedestrians and cyclists: In urban areas, particularly in low visibility, always check your mirrors for vulnerable road users.
• Mind blind spots: HGVs have significant blind spots. Ensure you regularly check your mirrors and be extra cautious when changing lanes or making turns.
• Use signals: Always signal your intentions early to let other road users know what you’re planning to do.
At Premier Placement Services, we emphasise the importance of awareness on the road. Your ability to stay alert can prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
6. Adhere to Speed Limits
While speed limits may vary depending on the type of road you’re on, it’s crucial that HGV drivers adhere to the posted limits. Exceeding the speed limit increases the risk of accidents and makes it more difficult to control your vehicle in an emergency.
• Built-up areas: In towns and cities, stick to the lower speed limits, as there is a higher likelihood of encountering pedestrians and cyclists.
• Motorways and dual carriageways: Even though higher speeds are allowed, always maintain control and stay within the legal limit for HGVs.
Premier Placement Services is committed to promoting safe driving habits, and we work with our drivers to ensure they always operate within legal limits and prioritise safety over speed.
