A truck rental is a major responsibility on the part of the driver, no matter where they are headed. However, those who navigate particularly rough roads should take extra precautions to ensure their safety as well as that of other drivers. Driving through a mountainous area, for instance, poses unique challenges that may be difficult for someone who is not accustomed to the terrain. Before you hit the road, brush up on a few tips to ensure a safe trip. 

How to Drive a Truck Rental Through a Mountain Range

1. Inspect Before

Before you hit the road, find a company that performs thorough truck inspections. This may entail trailer repair, gear checks, or tire pressure inspections. This precaution should help you avoid breakdowns along the way. Additionally, make sure your gas tank is full, and stock essential safety supplies, such as a first aid kit, flares, cones, and tire chains.

2. Take It Slow

Mountainous areas usually involve steep slopes and sharp curves, which are difficult to maneuver in large vehicles. Drive slowly, keeping your velocity under the speed limit by at least 5 miles per hour. If there are other, faster drivers on the road, slow down and allow them to pass you instead of speeding up.

3. Brake & Shift Carefully

Braking and shifting in a truck are different than in a personal vehicle. Always shift to a lower gear while you are traveling downhill than the one you ascended in. To maximize your safety, shift to a lower gear and begin to brake before the slope descends. Shifting while you’re already moving downhill might cause you to slip or stall. Lastly, don’t press on the brakes for too long at any one time; instead, pump them lightly until you get to a comfortable speed, then release. 

With two locations in Rochester, NY, DeCarolis Truck Rental can handle all the services you need to stay safe on roads that are either smooth or mountainous. For more than 75 years, they have offered a variety of truck rental options as well as maintenance and repair work. From Class 3 to Class 8, their fleet of vehicles is both impressive and accessible, as they offer competitive rates. View their selection online or call (585) 427-2670 today.