How to Back Up Large Trucks Safely
- 1). Check the large side-view mirrors (and rear-view mirror, if the truck has one) for any pedestrians or objects that may be moving near the back of the truck. Honk the horn if someone is idling near the truck, and try to alert him with hand signals of your intent to back up.
- 2). Depress the brake pedal and shift the truck's transmission into reverse. For large freight trucks like semis, this will activate a beeping noise to alert people in the immediate area. Exercise extra caution when reversing your truck if it does not have an audible warning noise.
- 3). Keep your eyes in the side view to monitor the area behind the truck. Release the brake pedal and slowly step on the gas pedal. Carefully maneuver the truck around obstacles, overcompensating for any gaps to cover the large turning radius. Depress the brake and shift the truck to neutral or park when you are finished backing up.