Not only will checking your lights and turn signals keep you and other travellers safe on the road, but it might also save you the cost of a ticket.

Use a gauge to check the air pressure of each tire before you leave. Unscrew the valve cap on the tire, press the gauge onto the valve stem, and check the reading before replacing the valve cap.

You may want to make a list or take pictures of any damaged areas to protect yourself.

You may have to readjust the mirrors every time you switch drivers.

The rental company should be able to give you information on the truck’s gas mileage. Use this information to calculate approximately how much fuel you will need for your journey. For instance, if your truck averages 10 mpg-US (4. 3 km/l) and you’re travelling 700 miles (1,100 km) you’ll need 70 gallons (260 l) of fuel.

Most emergency brakes are operated by hand and are located near the steering column or the gear shifter. Some emergency brakes are foot-operated and will be located near the driver’s left leg. If this is the case, press firmly on the brake then remove your foot to disengage the brake.

If you’re unfamiliar with driving a manual vehicle, double-check with the rental company to ensure your truck will be an automatic. If you’ll be driving on steep mountains, you may need to occasionally shift the truck into low gear so the truck has enough power to make it up the slope.

If you have an emergency, such as a flat tire, stay calm and gradually slow the truck, then pull over as soon as you can do so safely.

There is no center rearview mirror on a moving truck, so you’ll need to adjust to using the side mirrors to monitor your surroundings.

A normal rule of thumb is to stay at least 2 seconds behind the car in front of you, so when you’re driving a moving truck, you should double that to about 4 seconds.

There should be a sticker in the cab of the truck reminding you of how much overhead clearance you’ll need. Compare this to any signs you see before you drive under low bridges or get into a drive-thru line.

Mark any rest areas along the route in case you need to stop. If you need to stop overnight, look for hotels along the way that having parking available to large vehicles.

Discuss what hand signals you will use before you start backing up. For instance, you may agree that an open hand means go and a closed fist means stop.

Even if it seems like the truck is on flat elevation, you still need to engage the emergency brake.