A dashcam video circulating on social media has sparked concern after a truck driver appears to leave the steering wheel while the vehicle is still moving, with the truck eventually drifting off the road.
In the footage, the driver can initially be seen trying to reach for something from the sleeper area while keeping one hand on the steering wheel. When he fails to get what he wants, he looks ahead at what appears to be a straight stretch of road.
What happens next is the worrying part.
Instead of bringing the truck to a safe stop, the driver appears to make the decision to leave the steering wheel completely. He stands up from his seat and moves towards the sleeper, effectively leaving the truck travelling without anyone actively controlling it.
For a few seconds, the truck continues moving forward. But it soon begins drifting towards the left side of the road.
The driver quickly realises what is happening and rushes back towards the driver’s seat. By then, however, the truck has already travelled well off the roadway and there is little he can do to immediately regain control.
Fortunately, the truck does not overturn and eventually comes to a stop.
The video is a stark reminder that a road looking straight and clear does not make it safe to take your attention away from the steering wheel.
A truck can cover a surprising distance in just a few seconds, and even a small steering deviation can quickly become a serious problem.
Whatever the driver was trying to reach could have waited. The truck should have been brought to a complete stop before leaving the driver’s seat.
The latest SA Trucking News straight to your inbox!
