Blog posts of '2022' 'December'

Top Reasons to Avoid Overloading Commercial Vehicles 

The costs associated with transporting goods across the country continue to rise. For some carriers or customers this may increase their desire to maximize load size, in order to reduce the overall cost.  However, this may tempt them to overload a vehicle.

Aside from the risk of having their vehicle put out of service and being fined for overloading, they might have other issues to deal with even before they reach the weigh station. Here are some of the risks.

1. Overloading can have bad effects on steering, suspension, braking, and speed control.
2. Overloading can void your vehicle warranty.
3. Overloaded vehicles will require increased stopping distances.
4. Brakes can fail when they are forced to work too hard.

 CDL Direct is committed to providing the highest quality Entry Level Driver Training course available online. We also provide ongoing safety tips for truck drivers through our blogs. If you are considering getting your commercial driver’s license or would like to benefit from the safe driving tips that we provide, then check us out at CDLDirect.com today!

Hitting overhead objects is a real danger for truck drivers. For example, roadways often take you under overpasses. Make sure that you are aware of your vehicle’s height and that you always have sufficient overhead clearance. Don’t assume that the heights posted at bridges and overpasses are correct.

1. A road that has been repaved or has firmly packed snow on it may have less clearances than the clearance shown on posted signs.
2. The weight of your cargo affects your vehicle’s height. An empty container sits higher than one that is loaded. Just because you got under a bridge when you were loaded doesn’t mean that you can pass safely when empty.
3. If you doubt you have enough clearance to pass under an object, go slowly. If you aren’t sure whether you can make it, take another route.
4. Warnings are often posted on low bridges or underpasses, but sometimes they are not. Some roads can cause a vehicle to tilt. This can especially be a problem when passing objects along the edge of the road, such as signs, trees, or bridge supports.  Where this is a problem, drive a little closer to the center of the road.
5. Before you back into an area, check for overhanging objects such as trees, branches, or electric wires. It’s easy to miss seeing them while in reverse.

CDL Direct is committed to providing high-quality online Entry Level Driver Training.  We not only partner with many behind-the-wheel truck driving schools but can provide job placement services to help get our students on the road and provide for their families right away!