Don’t Be In Such A Hurry

Recently it occurred to me that sometimes farm/ranch safety extends beyond the ground and animals we care for.  The importance of safety for us at CBR often goes with us when we travel from the ranch.

It happens almost every time we hook up a truck and trailer.  Whether it’s a stock trailer hauling cows, a horse trailer loaded with several horses headed to the trail, or a 30 foot gooseneck trailer hauling a tractor or other piece of equipment.

So here are some tips on how to drive safely around those of us who drive trucks and trailers.

1.  Don’t be in such a hurry.

A truck with a trailer (whether loaded or empty)  is simply bigger and heavier than other vehicles.  When a car swerves or pulls out in front of one it take much longer to shut things down.  Everything from the back of the trailer is forced to the front causing the brakes to lock up.  Not to mention the load shifts potentially causing damage and or injury to livestock.

2. Don’t be in such a hurry.

Stay a safe distance behind.  A good rule of thumb is if you cannot see the side mirrors on the truck pulling the trailer, you are too close,   It’s also probable that the driver of the truck may not be able to see you either if you are this close.

3.  Don’t be in such a hurry.

I know it’s a pain to be behind a truck and trailer, especially when you are in a hurry.  The fact is, the person or people in that truck want to get to their destination as quickly and safely as you do.  They are not just pulling that load for the fun of it.  Very like whatever they are hauling, (hay, livestock, equipment, etc) is a vital part of their livelihood.

Many  people probably don’t even realize how driving around trucks pulling a load on a trailer differs from driving around smaller vehicles.   It may take a few extra minutes to get to our destination, but arriving safely is worth it.

Thanks for reading,

-Lori