‘Don’t assume that we see you and are stopping’ – Truck Driver

David Persaud, a motor lorry driver employed with a company called Epic Guyana at Houston, East Bank Demerara, explained that unlike a regular vehicle that has an internal rear view mirror, the truck that he drives does not have one.

This is among the factors that pose a challenge to drivers like himself whose vision is somewhat restricted when they have to drive in such an elevated position.

Persaud spoke to the News Room on Tuesday about road safety, especially in light of the recent accidents, including fatal ones, involving trucks. As the authorities step up awareness and intensify road safety campaigns, road users also have a role to play.

For instance, pedestrians waiting to cross the road ought to show clear signs of wanting to do so. At times, because there is no movement, truck drivers would assume that the persons are waiting for transportation or doing something else.

“To know if the driver is stopping for you to pass, make eye contact with the driver and he will give you the signal. Wave as if you are stopping the vehicle and point across the road because drivers scan the road for movements and are ready to react to that.”

According to Persaud, it would be wise for a pedestrian to pass at least 12 feet in front of the truck as anything under this would be difficult for them to recognise.

“It’s not a small vehicle; it’s much more difficult, so don’t expect us to do what you can do with a car. We have to take bigger locks, it’s a different sort of driving. Give us space,” Persaud advised.

Like minibuses, some truck drivers work with a daily target and in trying to reach it, they often speed and operate their vehicles recklessly on the roadways. That shouldn’t be however.

“Take your time. Everybody leaves home and we want everybody to reach home back safely,” Persaud said.

He also cited courtesy and patience as two keys that could help his fellow truck drivers to effectively navigate the roadways.