Fleet operations that involve off-road vehicles are typically used for tasks such as construction, mining, agriculture, forestry, and emergency response, as these vehicles are designed to navigate rough terrain and perform a variety of tasks in challenging environments.
After working with organisations such as National Parks, which rely on these vehicles to succeed in their objectives, we have highlighted the unique risks to drivers and the importance of off-road driving tips and safety training.
In this article, we discuss the mistakes to avoid and guidelines to follow before committing to off-road driving, keeping employees and drivers safe throughout the process and ensuring all operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Tips to better off-roading
We all have to start somewhere, and off-roading as a beginner still takes great skill. In this type of operation, we have the ability to implement safety measures to prepare for potential dangers that come with more serious operations like off-road driving.
Lower tyre pressure
Tyre manufacturers state that high inflation pressures are best when driving on a smooth paved surface, as the tyres require minimal energy to move. For off-roading in areas with rubble and uneven surfaces, higher tyre pressures can cause loss of traction and a more dangerous drive. It is best to lower the tyre pressure to prevent them from bouncing on rougher roads.
Lower pressure allows the tyre to be in better distribution of the vehicle’s weight and helps the car drive smoothly on materials like mud or sand.
The importance of flexibility
When off-roading, there are many frustrating elements to think about pre-drive. Routes can unexpectedly close, 4x4s can break down, and weather conditions can turn nasty before you get the time to pack any resources.
The best course of action is to be vigilant and flexible enough to adapt to the circumstances, with the ability to adjust any plans at any time. It is better to reach your destination a little later than planned rather than cause serious damage on the route.
Preparation is key
Preparation is everything when it comes to planning the best off-road experience. Conducting a thorough inspection pre-drive will ensure basic factors such as the oil, coolant, and tyres are checked and ready. Off-road routes can get messy, and limited visibility can cause serious accidents.
Make sure the vehicle has enough windscreen fluid to wash away any dirt or dust. Once you are back on familiar grounds, you must remember to inflate the tyres back to the appropriate level for smooth surface roads.
Off-roading mistakes to avoid
Mistakes are easy to make when unexpected routes are involved, and off-roading is a skill that even advanced drivers will have to practice. From improved vehicle knowledge to traction, how to maintain it and even learning the types of four-wheel drive systems. Learning how to safely operate a 4×4 vehicle is crucial.
Taking advantage of driver training courses is incredibly beneficial to drivers, and learning more about 4x4s on uncertain roads is in the best interest of a business and its employees’ safety.
Benefits of 4×4 driver training courses
- Gain peace of mind and meet ‘duty of care’ obligations
- Take part in progressive off-road training specifically designed for the professional driver
- Reduce fleet operating costs through enhanced driving skills, lower fuel consumption, reduced insurance premiums and maintenance/repair expenditure
- Off-road training can improve driving techniques, so there is less damage to the countryside, vehicles and equipment, helping to protect the local environment.
- Experience a sustainable improvement in off-road safety performance, ensuring a continual improvement plan throughout
- Raise a general driving safety awareness culture
At Drivetech, our 4×4 courses are mostly delivered on-road as this is one of the best ways to introduce drivers to 4×4 best practices and get comfortable with the technology. Our courses start at a beginner level and progress through to advanced which introduces more challenges. Training is delivered typically up to a ratio of three drivers to one trainer.
We provide comprehensive driver feedback, written course reports and certification for auditing purposes. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can support you.
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