Backing Up A Semi-truck: Essential Things To Remember

It goes without saying, that reversing a semi-truck isn't as easy as reversing a normal car

. With their unusual large size, and lack of manoeuvrability, additional care is a prerequisite when reversing a semi-truck. However, with the training that is required to drive a semi-truck, and the additional courses that many organisations happily provide, such as insurance companies which specialise in semi-truck insurance, it doesn't take too much effort in trying to reverse a semi-truck, once you know how to handle the semi-trucks size and weight correctly.

Therefore, these are the essential tips for which everybody who drives a semi-truck must bear in mind. Otherwise, the consequences could be fatal -- such as one's insurance premiums rising dramatically!

Before attempting to reverse a semi-truck, it is imperative that additional care is taken to ensure the absence of any children of loose animals in the vicinity. Ideally, this should be done by stepping out of the semi-truck's cabin, to take a look around the vehicle. This will help the situation by analysing it closely, instead of relying on the uncertainty of the semi-truck's side mirrors. In additional to children and loose animals, take a glance around the tyres of the semi-truck to make sure there aren't any obstacles in the way that may hinder the reversing process, and any other hazards that may cause problems when reversing.

Once satisfied that there aren't any children or loose animals around, and the area is quite clear of any unseen obstacles, it is wise to get back into the seat of the cabin, not forgetting one's seatbelt! Turn the ignition on the semi-truck, and allow it to air up for a little while before attempting to move it anywhere. Constantly check the pressure gauge on the semi-truck's meter to ensure that it has reached at least 120 PSI. Subsequently check all the mirrors once again, to be sure the situation hasn't changed drastically from 2 minutes ago. Put your foot down on the brake pedal, and disengage the air brakes, then begin the reversing process. If the semi-truck doesn't immediately drop into the reverse gear, do not force it; instead try it several times, as gently as you would normally.

Release your foot from the brake, and be vigilant of what can be seen in the semi-truck's mirrors, for any unforeseen incidents that may, and sometimes do, arise. After all, children's footballs have a nasty tendency to travel quite quickly, followed by 14 mindless children wanting to retrieve the football so that they can continue their ever so important game of football. If the truck unexpectedly lurches forwards, then it's actually in the wrong gear. If so, engage the clutch and brake, and have another go. On the other hand, if the semi-truck begins to steadily roll backwards, then accelerate if necessary, or merely allow the semi-truck to drift slowly backwards. Under no circumstances should one ride the clutch, as it is called.

Slow to a gradual stop by fully engaging the clutch, and then placing the semi-truck out of gear. Apply the brake, and remove your foot from the clutch altogether. Subsequently to which one needs to engage the air brakes once again. One caveat for if the semi-truck has a trailer attached is that one needs to be aware of the added lack of manoeuvrability, a walk around the entirely truck and trailer would definitely be advisable. Naturally the trailer's tail moves in the opposite direction to which one is turning, and that the turning radius is abnormally wide, thus extra consideration is required. Remember not to over-steer!

by: John Dorr

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