Shippers of hazardous materials are required to provide proper shipping papers to communicate the risks of the materials.

It is essential that exhaust system parts are not leaking or otherwise broken. A faulty exhaust system can let poisonous fumes into the cab or sleeper berth.

You should accelerate very gradually when driving under conditions that create poor traction.

All drivers must be trained in the security risks of hazardous materials transportation. This training must include how to recognize and respond to possible security threats. Hazardous materials employees must be trained and tested at least once every three years.

When checking the tires as part of a pre-trip inspection, make sure the tires have sufficient tread. There should be at least 4/32 of an inch of tread in every major groove of the front tires, and at least 2/32 of an inch of tread depth on the other tires. Tire sizes should not be mismatched.

Wheels or rims that have had welding repairs are never safe for use.

When checking your vehicle's tires, you should confirm that air pressure is neither too low nor too high; that there is at least 4/32 of an inch of tread depth in every major groove on the front tires; and that radial and bias-ply tires are not used together.

Because air pressure increases with temperature, you should pay special attention to the tire mounting and pressure when traveling in hot weather.

Positioning the weight of a load on one side of a trailer may cause the trailer to lean to that side, increasing the risk of a rollover during turns and lane changes.

Baffled tanks contain holed bulkheads that allow liquid to flow through the tank. This helps to inhibit front-to-back surge, but does not prevent side-to-side surge.

Driving tanks requires special care because they usually have high centers of gravity. The driver should also expect cargo movement in transit, if transporting liquid cargo.

Distractions while driving can be physical (such as reaching for an object), mental (such as making conversation with a passenger), or both (such as holding a phone to send texts). Strategies to help you avoid distracted driving include pre-programming radio stations; planning out your route in advance; avoiding complex or emotionally taxing conversation while driving; adjusting your mirrors before setting out; and not eating, drinking, or smoking while behind the wheel.

When stopping, you should push the brake pedal down gradually. Braking gradually will help you to maintain proper control of your vehicle.

At the end of each day of driving, you may be required to make a written report on the vehicle or vehicles driven. Be sure to make note of any issues that could affect the safety of the vehicle or that could lead to a mechanical breakdown.

Combination vehicles require more space on the road than other vehicles. When entering or crossing traffic while driving a combination vehicle, it is especially important that there is a large enonugh gap in traffic to safely do so.

When accelerating, speed up smoothly and gradually so your vehicle does not jerk. Rough acceleration can cause mechanical damage.

Parts of a vehicle that have been exposed to corrosive liquids must be thoroughly washed with water.

Low beam headlights should be used for best visibility, even during the day. Using high beam headlights around other drivers can be dangerous.

Unless you must run the engine to operate a pump, you should always turn off the engine before loading or unloading flammable liquids.

If you must make a quick stop to avoid an accident while transporting liquid cargo, it may be a good idea to use the stab braking method. Remember that attempting to steer quickly while braking may cause your vehicle to tip over, especially if it has a high center of gravity.