A knightly image is a personal choice requiring a daily commitment to safety and professionalism. A collection of unwritten rules of the road that exemplify this code is below. Read the information below and ask yourself if there are ways you can improve your knightly image.
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Be courteous and professional to others at all times.
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Practice personal hygiene and maintain a professional appearance.
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Get plenty of rest and pull over when feeling ill or fatigued.
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Practice healthy eating habits and make time to stretch and exercise.
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Observe all state laws, federal regulations, and company safety policies.
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Conduct a thorough vehicle inspection before, during, and after each trip.
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Use three points of contact when entering, exiting, or climbing on equipment.
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Share the road, especially with motorcyclists, bicyclists, stranded motorists, and emergency vehicles.
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Yield the right of way, especially in intersections, roundabouts, and merging lanes.
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NEVER drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
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Avoid distractions while driving, such as talking on the phone or texting.
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Maintain proper following distance and do not tailgate.
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Count seconds to gauge following distance and the speed of oncoming traffic.
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Be attentive to the road ahead.
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Make quick glances to mirrors, and then return your focus to the traffic ahead.
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Observe the proper speed for conditions.
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Do not discuss the specifics of what you are hauling in public or over the radio.
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Get Out And Look before backing (G.O.A.L.).
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Use a spotter and traffic control when backing up, if needed.
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Maintain one lane as much as possible.
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Always signal a lane change well in advance.
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Know the truck’s blind spots and manage the space around the vehicle.
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Use the ‘Lean and Look’ method to check the tractor’s right-front blind spot.
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Prevent rollovers by slowing down below the posted speed limit before entering a ramp, curve, or turn.
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If a jackknife occurs, disengage the clutch or shift to neutral, steer into the skid, and avoid using the brakes.
Note: These lists are not intended to be all-inclusive.
Insurance Contracts are Underwritten, Administered, and Issued by: Great West Casualty Company, Old Republic Life Insurance Company, and Old Republic Union Insurance Company.
One or more Old Republic companies may provide the products and/or services described. Information presented is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute a contract or advice, including employment advice or advice to motor carriers. Please refer to the relevant insurance policy for actual terms. Products and services may not be available in all states and may be subject to change without notice. © 2026 Old Republic International Corporation. Old Republic® and the Old Republic Circle of Stars monogram are registered trademarks. All Rights Reserved.
