Our ability to safely operate any type of motorized vehicle, including semi-trucks, is influenced by the position of our seat. It is important to remember, the position of your truck seat is directly related to the make, model, and year of truck you are driving. Some truck designs influence our seated positions based upon the amount of visibility available, as well as the installation and placement of the seat.
In addition, every truck driver has their own preferences for comfort, so their preferred seating position could easily vary from yours. This is perfectly acceptable, as long as the driver is sitting correctly to ensure the safe operation and control of the truck.
The main thing to remember is you are operating a large motorized vehicle, so looking “cool,” with the seatback fully reclined and the seat pushed so far back you can just barely reach the pedals, is never an option.
When you are not able to easily reach the truck’s pedals, it results in slower reaction times if you need to stop suddenly. Plus, a reclined seat back reduces your line of vision, making it more difficult to see further down the road. For instance, you might not be able to notice stopped traffic ahead or an accident until you are much closer, not providing you with sufficient time to stop.
One problem some truck drivers have is they are taller. Seats are typically designed as a “one-size-fits-all” solution. This leads to taller truck drivers having to slide their seats back further for comfortable leg positioning, but this could create problems with their being able to maintain a proper grip on the steering wheel. This can lead to problems maintaining control over the truck in adverse weather, as well as in slower reaction times should drivers need to quickly change lanes or direction. An adjustable steering wheel can easily resolve this type of problem.
To learn more about proper seat position and how to adjust your truck seat so it is ergonomically correct, check our free guide online or contact Suburban Seating & Safety at (844) SAS.SEAT (1-844-727-7328).
