Tips for Driving a Dump Truck
Like many different types of heavy equipment, dump trucks require specialized operating skills. Large trucks in general can be a bit tricky to figure out, but throw in loose material and you’ll need to spend some time figuring out what to do behind the wheel. That’s why Synergy Equipment has provided some tips to help with driving a dump truck. If you need additional advice, or if you’d like to check out our dump trucks for sale, stop by one of our locations in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.
On the Road
The most important element of driving a dump truck is maintaining focus. You’ll probably be bigger and bulkier than many of the other vehicles on the road, not to mention you’re carrying a unique kind of cargo that can present its own problems. Paying attention to your surroundings can help you spot obstacles and traffic changes that will force you to make adjustments. You’ll want to keep your distance from other drivers as best you can to give yourself plenty of time to adapt to changing road conditions.
Part of paying attention means knowing what some of your height and width limits are. This is especially important when you’re traveling in urban areas where there are overpasses that will place restrictions on how tall vehicles can be to safely pass under them. Failing to accommodate these restrictions can lead to damage and vehicular accidents.
When driving in reverse, you should get a second pair of eyes to guide you. They’ll be able to see obstacles that you can’t and tell you how to adjust your direction. Slow and steady wins this race and, if needed, you might even want a third pair of eyes.
Filling the Dump Box
When you’re loading, the last thing you want to do is just start piling things on willy nilly. The load needs to be secure so that depositing the material later on—as well as transporting it—doesn’t create new problems. This includes not filling the upper portion of the dump box and ensuring that all material is evenly distributed and packed low. To further contain the load, use a tarp (which is a legal requirement in most states).
Practice Safety
Once it’s time to start dumping the material, exercise caution. There’s a lot of material getting thrown around and your safety and the safety of those around you need to take priority. Some basic tips include:
- Operate the dump box on flat, even ground
- Never drive with a raised bed
- Pay attention to your surroundings
- Make good use of spotters and follow all instructions they give you via hand signals or headsets
- Give yourself a clear workspace that’s off limits to people and other equipment
It’s also a good idea to check in with the site foreman to iron out the details of what they need and expect. They might have additional safety parameters you need to be following.
Keep Your Truck in Good Shape
No matter how careful or cautious you are, your truck isn’t going to perform well if you aren’t taking care of it. You’ll need to perform regular inspections on your own, and take your dump truck in for servicing regularly. If you notice damage or that it’s underperforming, then it’s up to you to either take it in yourself or notify the fleet owner that the truck needs fixing. Even if you have to pester busy people, don’t rest until the vehicle is in peak working condition and is safe to take on the road.
Proper operation is the key to efficient and safe dump truck use. If you need additional help, or if you’re looking for a reliable service department to help with maintenance, contact Synergy Equipment to see what our staff members in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina can do for you.