What are the reversing techniques for large trucks?
3 Answers
When driving on curves and bumpy roads, the speed needs to be further reduced and should not exceed 80km/h to prevent the possibility of skidding or rollover. During actual loading, it is best to place heavier vehicles on the lower level and lighter vehicles on the upper level for rear-mounted axle trailers. When reversing, avoid rigid contact between the front and rear vehicles. The driver must first ensure that they can anticipate whether the turning angle during reversing exceeds the vehicle's design limits. Before reversing, observe the terrain carefully. When parking, pay attention to whether there are obstacles around the parking space while driving past it.
To master the reversing skills for large trucks, as a seasoned truck driver with years of experience, I've found that the key lies in meticulous preparation and execution. Initially, it's crucial to walk around the vehicle to check blind spots and obstacles, such as rocks or people behind the wheels. When reversing, maintain a speed below 5 km/h, frequently scan both sides using the rearview mirrors, and listen to the engine sound to gauge position. If possible, having an assistant guide you from a safe area via walkie-talkie is more reliable. Blind spots are critical—large trucks have limited rear visibility and can easily overlook low objects. I remind myself to double-check ground levelness to prevent rollovers. Practice is essential; I repeatedly train turning rhythms in open spaces—long bodies with high inertia can lose control during sharp turns, so slow and steady movements are safest. Also, consider weather conditions like slippery roads during rain, and regularly inspect lights and reverse alarms to ensure functionality. In short, reversing isn't about luck but systematic planning—adhering to these steps reduces accident rates.
When I first started learning to drive a large truck, I often had problems with reversing—always veering off or hitting things. Now I've picked up some tricks: start with simple scenarios, like practicing basic skills in an open area, setting fixed points as targets, and slowly approaching with the help of mirrors. Keep the speed low and press the throttle gently—sudden braking can cause instability. When visibility is limited, I open the window to listen to ambient sounds and have installed blind-spot cameras for assistance, which has improved the results significantly. During the process, stay calm; if something feels off, stop the truck and re-plan the route. It's also important to note that cargo weight affects inertia—when fully loaded, operations require extra caution as greater inertia amplifies the risk of mistakes. Regularly checking the suspension system can enhance stability. Beginners are advised to practice more under the guidance of an experienced driver. Through trial and error, I've mastered a steady and precise reversing method. Reversing a large truck isn't difficult, but it requires patience—details determine success.
