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Understanding Truck and Tractor-Trailer Blind Spots: What Every Driver Needs to Know

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  Truck and tractor-trailer drivers operate some of the largest and most complex vehicles on the road. Due to their size, these vehicles have significant blind spots — areas around the truck where other vehicles or pedestrians are not visible in the mirrors. These blind spots, often referred to as “ No-Zones ,” pose serious safety risks if not properly managed. Understanding and mitigating these blind spots is essential for safe driving and accident prevention. Where Are the Blind Spots? Front Blind Spot Located directly in front of the truck’s cab. Drivers often cannot see vehicles or obstacles within about 20 feet in front. 2. Rear Blind Spot Located directly behind the trailer. Can extend up to 200 feet behind the truck. Rear-view mirrors do not cover this area, making reversing particularly dangerous. 3. Side Blind Spots On both sides of the truck, particularly the right side (passenger side). Can extend across multiple lanes. These are the most dangerous blind spots due t...

When Trucks Turn Deadly: Lessons from Recent Dangote's Truck Accidents

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  In recent weeks, Nigeria has been shaken by heartbreaking accidents involving Dangote trucks. One of the most painful incidents was the death of a young lady who just graduated six days before the crash , and another occurred near Apostle Johnson Suleman’s church. These tragedies have again raised urgent questions: Why do these accidents keep happening? and what can be done to stop them? image: sahara reporters Why Do These Accidents Happen? Truck crashes in Nigeria are often the result of: Poor driver training – many truck driver...

The Critical Role of Voltmeter and Ammeter in Truck Safety

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  When it comes to the safety and reliability of trucks and tractor-trailers, electrical system monitoring is just as important as engine performance and braking power. Two often-underestimated tools that contribute significantly to road safety are the voltmeter and ammeter. These instruments help drivers monitor the health of a truck’s electrical system, which powers essential components such as lights, ignition, communication systems, and emergency equipment. Understanding the Voltmeter and Ammeter Voltmeter : This instrument measures the voltage (electrical potential difference) of the vehicle’s battery system. It helps detect whether the battery is being overcharged or undercharged. Ammeter : This device measures the current flowing to and from the battery. It shows whether the battery is charging (current flowing in) or discharging (current flowing out). Together, these tools give drivers real-time insight into their truck’s electrical status, helping to prevent breakdown...

The Critical Importance of Draining the Wet Tank in Truck Air Brake Systems

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  When it comes to truck safety, few systems are more vital than the air brake system . Among its components, one often overlooked yet critical part is the wet tank , also known as the primary air reservoir. For truck and tractor-trailer drivers, regularly draining the wet tank is not just a maintenance step — it’s a safety essential that can prevent brake failure, reduce repair costs, and even save lives. What is the Wet Tank? In heavy-duty trucks with air brake systems, the wet tank is the first air reservoir where compressed air from the compressor is stored. As the air passes through the system, it carries moisture and oil vapor  — byproducts of air compression. The wet tank acts as the first line of defense , collecting most of this moisture and oil before it reaches other parts of the brake system , like the service and emergency reservoirs. Why Does Moisture Accumulate? Air compression naturally creates condensation . Even with an air dryer installed, some water, oil...

The Need for Retraining Truck Drivers for Safety and Efficiency

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  In today’s fast-evolving transportation industry, the road to safety, efficiency, and profitability doesn’t stop at a driver’s license. As logistics demands grow, vehicles become more advanced, and roads get busier, the need for consistent retraining of truck drivers becomes not only beneficial — but absolutely essential. Retraining isn’t just about correcting bad habits; it’s about adapting to new realities , enhancing safety , and boosting performance . For any serious logistics company or independent truck owner, regular driver retraining is an investment with long-term returns. Why Is Retraining Necessary? 1. To Keep Up with Changing Technology Modern trucks are equipped with cutting-edge systems — GPS, automated gearboxes, collision warning sensors, and digital dashboards. Without proper training, even experienced drivers may misuse or underutilize these tools, leading to inefficiency and even accidents. Example : A driver unfamiliar with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) m...

Deadly Deals: The Role of Fake Truck Spare Parts in Safety and Profitability - A Nigerian Perspective

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  In Nigeria’s booming haulage and logistics industry, the availability of spare parts is as essential as fuel. But beneath the surface of this vital sector lies a dangerous threat silently crippling businesses and endangering lives: fake truck spare parts . For truck owners, fleet managers, and investors, the use of counterfeit parts may seem like a cost-saving measure — but the hidden costs far outweigh the temporary gain. In fact, fake parts are one of the leading causes of road accidents, mechanical failures, and financial losses in the Nigerian trucking industry. Understanding the Fake Spare Parts Menace Fake or substandard spare parts are unauthorized copies of genuine vehicle components, often made with low-quality materials. They look like the real thing, but lack the durability, precision, and safety standards of original parts. From brake pads and suspension systems to filters, clutches, and engine components — counterfeit versions flood Nigerian markets, especially...

The Unsung Hero of Haulage: How a Good Mechanic Drives Profit and Safety in the Trucking Business

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  In the world of trucking and haulage, most of the spotlight goes to the truck itself and the driver behind the wheel. However, there’s a silent hero behind the scenes who can make or break the success of any transport business: the mechanic . For many fleet owners and truck investors — especially in Nigeria and other developing economies — recognizing the value of a skilled and trustworthy mechanic is often an afterthought. But the truth is, a good mechanic doesn’t just fix trucks — they protect your investment, improve safety, and boost long-term profitability . Why Every Truck Business Needs a Good Mechanic 1. Minimizing Downtime, Maximizing Uptime Every day a truck sits in a workshop or on the roadside due to breakdown is money lost. Deliveries are delayed, clients are disappointed, and drivers remain idle. A reliable mechanic ensures: Quick diagnostics and accurate repairs Preventive maintenance that prevents breakdowns in the first place Faster turnaround time to get th...