Wrecker drivers work as mobile technicians to remove, secure, and tow wrecked cars and perform other tasks. You must drive a flatbed truck to the accident site to pick up a vehicle. This job might involve moving the car or making repairs right on the spot. This maintenance technician is responsible for clearing away any debris, such as glass, reflective tape, and flashing lights, from the accident site before the work can begin. Once they have collected the vehicle, these workers must move it to a secure and safe location. This could involve driving the car on the highway or obtaining permission to park it on someone’s property. Wrecker drivers could then be responsible for safely repairing or towing the vehicle to your shop or storage facility.

Although the job is exciting and well-paid (the national average for heavy-duty tow drivers truck wreckers nz is just below $60,000, according to ZipRecruiter), there are many stressors, such as driving in inclement weather or working long hours. People who work in this industry suffer from injuries due to long hours and working in cramped spaces. The job is dangerous because it involves working alongside other vehicles and trucks at 70 mph. Brian Riker is the president and chief compliance specialist at Fleet Compliance Solutions, which provides transportation compliance consulting services for the commercial vehicle market. He previously stated that a tower or mobile mechanic gets struck by a vehicle approximately.

Roadside service supervisors and managers should keep this in mind so that their employees perform the job safely and efficiently.

These are some tips for managers and wrecker drivers to make your job easier and reduce the chance of getting hurt.

• Buy a truck seat

On average, these drivers sit down for 10 hours per day. Your truck seat should provide the proper support to maintain a healthy posture. High-back seats are popular among drivers as they offer more support for the back and allow them to sit straighter. Lower back pain is one of the most common injuries. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) states that many drivers have trouble maintaining a proper sitting position. This can lead to various medical conditions, including chronic lower back pain.

• Mobile maintenance is a great option.

Mobile maintenance services are more popular than ever. You should only hire reputable mechanics to repair your vehicle or tow it. This service will keep your truck safe and in top operating condition. Some mobile maintenance companies can perform routine maintenance or repairs if your car breaks down while you’re on the job.

Regular inspections of your truck can save you money in the long term. It’s also essential to make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Any potential problems will be identified and fixed promptly. You can also call mobile maintenance companies to help with an accident or breakdown. Any maintenance problems can cause the driver to lose control and cause an accident.

• Wear safety clothing

People often focus too much on driving safely and need more on protective workwear. It can be dangerous to work in hot environments, lift heavy equipment or move heavy objects. The Department of Transportation (DOT has safety regulations to help truckers deal with the many challenges they face. Safety glasses, gloves, and hats protect your skin while you work. They also provide additional safety in difficult conditions.

To tow a vehicle, you should have a reflective vest that is brightly lit to let other drivers know where you are. To alert other drivers, make sure your tow truck light is on. You should always wear safety shoes and boots while on the job. It is essential to have the correct shoes for your job. Safety apparel for truck drivers will keep you safe on the roads.

• Safety laws must be respected.

Safety laws must be adhered to by everyone working in this industry. To ensure your safety while driving, you can take certain precautions. You must comply with all traffic laws. You must, for example, obey all speed limits and ensure your vehicle is in a safe place at all times. You must slow down and move to the side if you see anything on the road that could cause an accident. All traffic lights must be observed. When you travel through intersections, be sure to pay attention to the vehicles around you. These precautions will help to reduce the chance of you being injured or even killed while working. To help you stay safe on the road, read these safety tips.

• Ask for help from other professionals.

Unexpected maintenance issues can strike tractor-trailers you are repairing or removing from the road. Your wrecker could also be affected while on the job. It would be best if you were ready for this. To help you deal with these situations, it is a good idea for you to partner up with another reliable tow truck service provider. FleetNet  uses an internal rating system that assigns roadside service providers based on their skill set and location.

Final thoughts

It is a big responsibility to drive a tow truck. Unexpected situations, such as an accident or breakdown, can quickly become life-threatening. These safety tips will help you to stay safe in this field. Safety clothing, mobile maintenance services, and knowing the laws are some of the many ways you can protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.