Operating a semi-truck is a big responsibility and requires skill, knowledge, and the right equipment. Semi-trucks are large commercial vehicles used for hauling freight and cargo across the country.
They are an integral part of the transportation industry and require special qualifications to operate safely. Here’s what you need to know before operating a semi-truck.
Qualifications
In order to operate a semi-truck, you must meet certain qualifications. These include a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), exhaustive training, and experience driving other types of commercial vehicles. You must also be at least 21 years old and pass written, road, and skills tests.
Knowledge
When it comes to operating a semi-truck, knowledge is power. You should be familiar with trucking laws and regulations in your state as well as any other states you may be driving through.
You should also have a basic understanding of how to maintain your vehicle as well as how to safely maneuver it in traffic or on highways.
Equipment
In order to legally operate a semi-truck, there are certain pieces of equipment that must be in place. This includes headlights, turn signals, brake lights, reverse lights, hazard warning flashers, mud flaps on the back wheels, air brakes that are in good working condition and regularly inspected, reflective tape on the sides of the truck for visibility at night or in bad weather conditions.
Conclusion
Operating a semi-truck requires skill and knowledge as well as the right qualifications and equipment. Those wishing to drive these large commercial vehicles must obtain their CDL along with relevant training before they can legally hit the road. It is also important to be familiar with trucking laws both in their home state as well as any states they may drive through.
