Safe Summer Driving Tips From Top Truck Drivers

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 23 -- From driveway to highway, America's motorists are lined up for holiday and vacation travel. To get them safely on the way, the American Trucking Associations, the trucking industry's largest trade and safety group, polled some top professional truck drivers for their common sense advice on how to safely navigate through highway traffic and congestion this Summer and, at the same time, to save costly fuel.

All of the drivers agree that the first step toward a safe trip begins in the driveway.

* Do a "walk around" before leaving. Check your vehicle's tires, wipers and fluids. Have your radiator and cooling system serviced. You can prevent many of the problems that strand motorists on the side of the road.

* Leave early so you won't be anxious about arriving late, and to accommodate delays. Know your limitations; don't drive when tired, upset, or physically ill.

* When sharing the road with large trucks, be aware of their blind spots. If you can't see the truck driver in his or her mirrors, then the truck driver can't see you.

* Expect the unexpected; look 1/4 mile ahead for a safe path. Leave yourself an out.

* Pull off to a designated parking area to use your cell phone.

* To change lanes, signal ahead of time so others can respond. If a truck is signaling to change lanes, allow it space to do so. Often, it is trying to avoid another vehicle.

* Remember that trucks are heavier and take longer to a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.

* On entrance ramps, remember highway traffic has the right of way; maintain proper speed, use smooth merging techniques. Don't slow in front of a truck.

* Understand that big trucks cannot always stop to assist you, but most will use their radios to contact the police or highway patrol if they see you are in trouble.

* To save fuel, take direct routes, minimize side trips, and keep a steady speed. Further, a well-tuned engine and properly inflated tires will result in noticeable fuel savings.