The Importance of Truck Maintenance to Road Safety
Every year, more than 400,000 truck drivers face accidents, and almost 40% of these involve single vehicles. While this might sound like a lot, not all of these accidents are the drivers' fault.
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An increasing number of crashes are due to poor maintenance. But just how many truck crashes are caused by equipment failure? Let's walk through the statistics first.
A study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) looked at why truck accidents happen. They found that vehicle problems were the main reason for only 10% of the accidents. But issues with maintenance played a much bigger part in many accidents.
According to the FMSCA study, maintenance issues were a contributing factor (but not the direct cause) of nearly 40% of truck accidents.
The Truck Parts to Keep an Eye On
Keeping your truck in good shape is important. However, even if you take care of it every day, some parts will wear out. That`s why we would like to remind you about the most replaced semi-truck parts you should always keep an eye on:
Tires
Driving for thousands of miles wears out your tires. Before starting your journey, check your tires for signs of wear and tear. It's easier to change a tire before you hit the road than deal with a problem on the way. Truck tires last longer than regular ones, but they still need to be changed regularly.
Brake Pads
Your brakes are super important for safety. To keep yourself and others safe, check your brakes regularly. Truck brakes don't last as long as regular car brakes because trucks are heavier, which makes it harder to stop. For big trucks, it's important to change the brakes every three to five years. If you want your brake pads to last longer, try to stop slowly and smoothly.
Mirrors
Truckers need mirrors to drive their big rigs safely. Dirt and debris can scratch or break your mirrors. If they get damaged, replace them with another one for clear vision and safe driving.
Clutch
A damaged clutch can make your ride bumpy and harm other truck parts. Clutches in semi-trucks wear out faster than regular ones. It's important to check them regularly, and with proper care, a semi-truck clutch should last for about 200,000 miles.
Headlights
Broken headlights also can lead to accidents, especially at night. Before you start your trip, check them on any burnt-out. Sometimes, it's not the whole headlight that needs changing, but a small part like a relay, module, or fuse.
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The Value of Truckers' Maintenance Knowledge
In fact, it is common for truck drivers to have some knowledge of basic truck maintenance and repairs. Many trucking companies provide training for their drivers in these areas, as it can be beneficial for them to be able to make minor repairs on the road. But why is it so prevalent? The answer lies in the advantages it brings.
Self-Reliance: During long trips, problems might come up that need fixing right away. Knowing how to do minor repairs helps drivers handle these issues without waiting for help.
Saving Money: Fixing trucks can be costly, especially if you have to pay for labor. By fixing small problems yourself, you can save money and spend less time waiting for repairs.
Time Management: Truckers follow tight schedules, and waiting for repairs can cause delays. Knowing how to deal with minor issues quickly helps truckers stick to their schedules.
On the other hand, it's important to remember that truck drivers are not professional mechanics. Some problems need expert attention to avoid accidents on the road. So, if your truck breaks down, it's best to go to a repair service. Finding the right one can be tricky, but the Trucker Guide makes it easier. It offers access to live road cameras, information about low clearances and weight stations on your way, nearest services you need, and other benefits for better trucking experience.
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Truck maintenance is a necessity for both the safety of the driver and other road users. Regular checks and timely repairs can prevent accidents caused by equipment failure. Remember, a well-maintained truck is a safer truck.
by Stuart Nelson
