Slips, trips, and falls are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries. For drivers, these types of injuries commonly occur when improperly entering or exiting the cab and trailer.
The result can be quite painful and, in some cases, prove fatal. The key to avoiding a preventable injury is to recognize the hazards that contribute to slip, trip, and fall injuries associated with entering and exiting equipment, and knowing how to protect yourself from harm.
Read this information and put the recommendations into practice to help protect yourself and others.
Recognize the Hazards
Environment
Slippery surfaces, such as ice, snow, mud, and puddles, on and around the tractor and trailer, create hazards when entering or exiting equipment. Uneven surfaces including potholes and rocks can cause an injury.
Equipment
The tractor and trailer are elevated positions, so falling from equipment while entering or exiting can cause serious injuries. Likewise, if the cab steps are damaged or worn (including carpet), or the grab handles are broken or missing, a driver may slip and fall.
Personal Behaviors
Bad judgment and improper technique when entering and exiting equipment are two of the most common causes of broken bones, torn muscles and tendons, concussions, and even fatalities.
Hurrying, jumping from the cab or trailer, not paying attention, and carrying objects while trying to enter or exit equipment are examples of unsafe behaviors.
Know the Defense
Use Three Points of Contact
Use three points of contact when entering or exiting equipment, meaning both hands and one foot or both feet and one hand are always in contact with the truck at all times. Always face the equipment when climbing on or off equipment, and keep your body as close to the equipment as possible. Do not hurry and NEVER jump from an elevated position.
Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Always wear footwear with slip-resistant soles and gloves for added grip. Never wear cowboy boots, sandals, or shoes with flat soles when working around the truck.
Be Attentive to Your Surroundings
Check the ground around the truck for slip, trip, and fall hazards before entering or exiting equipment.
Conduct a Pre-trip Vehicle Inspection
Ensure truck steps and hand holds are not damaged or missing. Report deficiencies to a maintenance manager immediately.
Avoid Distractions
Avoid distracted walking. Put away cell phones, clipboards, food, etc., before entering or exiting equipment. Focus on the task at hand.
Note: These lists are not intended to be all-inclusive.
The information in this article is provided as a courtesy of Great West Casualty Company and is part of the Value-Driven® Company program. Value-Driven Company was created to help educate and inform insureds so they can make better decisions, build a culture that values safety, and manage risk more effectively. To see what additional resources Great West Casualty Company can provide for its insureds, please contact your safety representative, or click below to find an agent.
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.
