Reversing Skills of Semi-trailer : How to Be Successful for the First Time

Driving a semi-trailer is difficult, especially for drivers who are new to semi-trailers, reversing the truck is the most difficult skill to learn. Usually, the semi-trailer and the tractor truck travel in opposite directions when reversing. The trailer is generally long, making it difficult to estimate the distance and angle. We have summarized some reversing skills of semi-trailers for reference to some new drivers.
 
When the semi-trailer is reversed, it is in the opposite direction, and drivers who are new to the semi-trailer need to get used to it for a while. When reversing, you should grasp the position and direction of the truck and check the rearview mirror. If the trailer is relatively long, or the terrain is complex and the field of vision is limited, it is better to have a person in charge of the command under the truck, so that it will be easier for the driver to operate. Of course, if the combination of the trailer and the tractor truck is very suitable, it can also reduce the difficulty of reversing. Regarding the collocation of the two, the previous article  Choose the Right Trailer for Your Tractor Truck  has already mentioned.
 


● Understand the reversing skills and master the basic methods
 
Before reversing, adjust the front of the truck and the body, try to keep the front tractor truck and trailer straight, or the front of the truck is tilted to the side of the target parking space, and then operate according to the basic method: turn the steering wheel clockwise when reversing to the left, and turn the steering wheel counterclockwise when reversing to the right.The direction of the semi-trailer is corrected while reversing.
 
When the parking space is on the right, the steering wheel should be turned to the left when reversing, and you should observe carefully the distance between the right rear wheel and the road crossing. When you see the right rear wheel of the trailer entering the parking space, you need to turn the steering wheel faster at this time to get the body back as soon as possible, and pay attention to the left wheel of the trailer. When the rear body is about to be straightened, quickly turn the steering wheel so that the body and the front of the truck can be turned straight. If it is still not straight, you can adjust it again.
 
● Concentrate and keep calm
 
Knowing the basic method, the rest is practice, but usually pay attention to the following points:
 

1. No matter whether you are going forward or reversing, you must see the surrounding situation clearly. In the case of limited field of vision, you can have someone help you, but try to keep the commander in the field of vision and keep the distance between people and vehicles.

 
2. Maintain a good attitude. No matter what the situation is, you should be calm. If you fail to reverse once, you can try several times. Don't worry even if someone urges you to sound the horn. You should know, you are both drivers, he can understand.
 
3. When reversing, you must observe carefully and slow down. Even if you are an experienced driver, you shouldn't take it lightly. Because there are many accidents caused by reversing every year. Don't let your carelessness hurt yourself and others.
 
● Afterwords:
 
Driving a semi-trailer is a more laborious and professional industry, and reversing backwards requires a skilled level. If you want to learn to reverse the truck well, it is far from enough to know the principles and methods. You also need to practice diligently and ask the master for advice. The more you practice, the more tips and experiences you will learn.
 
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