Don’t Jump! Tips to Safely Exit Your Truck

Some drivers jump from their truck because it’s faster. But the fastest way isn’t safe.

Let’s face it – we’re not built like rabbits! For us, jumping can lead to lifelong joint damage.  Even if it seems like a short distance, your body absorbs the impact every time you jump down from a cab, back of a trailer, or loading dock. Your body can exert up to twelve times your body weight on your joints upon landing. For a 200-pound driver, that’s over a ton of pressure on your back, knees, and ankles! Let’s leave jumping to the rabbits. Enter and exit your trucks in a safe manner each and every day to avoid injuries.

What is the safest way to exit a truck?

• Use three points of contact at all times; keep one hand and two feet on the vehicle, or two hands and one foot.
• Always face the cab or equipment when entering or exiting the tractor.
• Never attempt to enter or exit the cab with items in your hands.
• Only use proper points of contact; wheel hubs and door handles are not an acceptable substitute for running boards or grab-bars.