2010_A_TC

SAFETY
TIPS
A dog can provide protection if someone tries to enter the truck, and even a small dog can provide a warning
if an intruder is approaching. (iStock Photo)
Personal safety can depend on planning,
choices
With all the news about protests that turn violent
and defunding law-enforcement agencies, a
number of truckers are feeling less safe. Many are
considering personal protection, with some looking
to carry weapons, including firearms, in their trucks.
While there may be some wisdom in the adage,
“It’s better to be judged by 12 than carried by six,”
having a weapon on your person or in your truck
exposes you to some pretty severe risks, including
high fines and, in some cases, mandatory jail time.
Even when punishment is light, attorney’s fees
and loss of income can severely impact a driver’s
budget.
Many carriers forbid the carrying of weapons, so
there’s a risk of job loss, too.
By Cliff Abbott
Still, it’s a decision that every driver must make for
themselves. Full disclosure: Back in my over-theroad
driving days, I was almost always armed. It was
a choice I made. Fortunately, I never encountered a
situation where a firearm was needed.
For many drivers, protection starts with making
common-sense decisions that help reduce the
risk of ever needing a weapon. While no plan is
foolproof, there are steps every driver can take
to stay safe. Where you park, the route you take
walking into the truck stop, and even what you’re
wearing and how alert you appear can make a big
difference.
One safety rule is to remember is this: Talking
about the load is a bad practice. Don’t advertise your
10 TRUCKER’S CONNECTION www.TruckersConnection.com