What’s the safest way to handle a semi-truck breakdown on the road?

Driving a semi-truck is no easy task. There are a lot of factors that you need to consider when you’re in charge of such a large and heavy vehicle as a semi-truck. Not only are you looking out for yourself, but you’re also constantly being vigilant for the behavior of other drivers on the road.

There are various reasons a semi-truck may break down, including breaks, engine, transmission, accidents, flat tires, weather, and much more. Below we’ll cover some tips to help you the next time your semi-truck breaks down.

5 Tips for Dealing with a Semi-Truck Breakdown

  1. Maintain Visibility with Other Drivers – Most drivers are always interested in getting from point a to point b as quickly as possible. They aren’t always paying 100% attention to what’s happening on the road around them. If you’re pulled off to the side of a road or highway, then turn on your flashers. Reflective signs positioned behind your vehicle are also a great way to warn approaching drivers.
  2. Understand what Caused the Breakdown – If you can identify what caused the breakdown, you’ll be able to advise those coming to fix or recover your semi-truck. The more information they have, the more prepared they’ll be and the sooner your semi-truck will be repaired. In addition, if they know what caused the breakdown in advance, they may be able to bring replacement parts with them.
  3. Identify a Local Towing Company – If you know where you are, then searching for a local tow truck company will help you to get recovered quicker than an out-of-town business. Also, if you have been involved in any automotive accident or breakdown in Eagle County or Summit County, Colorado, Mountain Recovery is a great choice!
  4. Avoid Sudden Movements or Passing – Other drivers are often unaware of larger vehicles despite their size. Plan any passing movements or lane changes well in advance to give other drivers as much notice as possible. Use your turn signals and double-check all blind spots before making a lane change.
  5. Give Yourself Space for Wide Turns – It takes a lot of room to turn a large semi-truck. So, it’s essential that you give yourself a little extra room to make those wide turns to avoid creating a collision. A collision with another vehicle is a fast way to put a halt to your journey.

Our Heavy-Duty Towing Services

There you go! Everything you wanted to know about handling a semi-truck breakdown on the road. Driving a semi-truck can be highly challenging, but if you break down and need assistance, Mountain Recovery is here to help.

If you have been involved in any automotive accident in Eagle County or Summit County, Colorado, Mountain Recovery is only a phone call away at 970-476-1124. We operate 24/7, 365-days a year, to keep you moving and help get your vehicle back on the road.