Working as a tow truck operator is no easy job, as drivers need to be on their toes all the time to deal with the emotionally draining and physically demanding driving routine. To begin with, tow truck operators are the first respondents to emergencies and all kinds of traffic accidents, including accidents involving heavy vehicles. They find themselves at non-stop traffic which adds to the stress, making the job one of the most demanding work positions.
Even though this job can be incredibly lucrative, it does put operators at risk of being struck by another driver and a wide array of other problems that might occur while on the road. To adequately address the potential dangers associated with tow truck drivers, it’s essential to emphasize safety and take the necessary safety measures seriously, whether the driver is a beginner or a pro.
This short article will cover the essential safety tips and measures for tow truck operators and how they can minimize their chances of being involved in a traffic accident.
Always Choose Quality Lights For Your Tow Truck
Perhaps the most crucial consideration for tow truck operators is to have and actively use high-quality emergency lighting at all times. Quality lighting will alert other drivers to the fact that you’re on the job and may pull over to do unusual things in order to get a stranded vehicle out of the danger zone.
Moreover, quality tow truck lighting will alert others when you’re towing a vehicle, which keeps them from plowing into you if they think that you’re driving faster than you are. Additionally, ensure that you have premium quality utility truck work lights mounted on the top of your cabin so that you have powerful light output illuminating your working scene at night. Always go with lights specially designed for tow trucks, and change out bulbs and LED lights regularly for best results.
Have The Right Gear On You
Besides not having quality lighting, one of the top reasons tow truck operators might face danger on the road is that other drivers do not easily see them. For instance, many accidents have occurred when a tow truck operator loads a vehicle up onto their truck and finds themselves suddenly hit by a speeding driver who couldn’t see them.
This genuine danger can be prevented by having and wearing highly visible clothing as operators do their job, primarily if they work during dark hours or in poorly lit locations. For that reason, tow truck operators need to have fluorescent safety vests in their trucks at all times, and as soon as they pick up a job, they need to wear them.
Also, operators need to ensure that they have a helmet in their cabins and wear it as soon as they leave their vehicle to go and secure a stranded one. The helmet should be just as reflective as the vest so that it could be easily spotted. This way, if an operator does get hit or faces another risk, at least they’ll have a layer of protection working for them. Other gear that tow truck drivers must have on them every single time they hit the road includes foot protection, gloves, eyewear, cold/hot weather gear, flashlight, and cell phone.
Perform Regular Inspection On The Tow Truck
In addition to making sure that they have the right wearable gear and lights, tow truck operators also need to take the time to inspect their vehicle before they go on a run regularly. This way, they can ensure that everything is in proper working order, from the tire pressure to ensuring that they have all necessary equipment and that it’s sound and ready for use. The simple act of inspecting the truck can ultimately save their lives and the lives of others.
For example, think about the damage a bad cable could cause to a truck, the car that it’s towing, and anyone who happens to drive behind it. To avoid such risks, tow truck operators need to inspect all cables before going out on a call regularly. Besides cables, we recommend regular checkups of wenches, connectors, and splices. Any fault should immediately be fixed. Other than that, drivers need to make sure that all moving parts are properly lubricated and mounting bolts and tightly screwed. Breaks and tire maintenance should also be done periodically after a few trips.
Final Thoughts
Tow truck drivers need to always stay realistic and understand that unexpected accidents happen on the road all the time. Nevertheless, with suitable safety measures in place, tow truck operators can keep themselves and other motorists safe from harm and reduce their exposure to unnecessary situations.
