Methods and Techniques for Reversing Semi Trailers

2023/04/25 18:16

For cardholders who have just come into contact with a semi trailer, reversing is the most difficult technique to learn, because the direction of travel between the semi trailer and the tractor is opposite when reversing, and the trailer is generally very long, making it difficult to estimate the distance and angle. Therefore, it is difficult to learn the correct reversing method, and if necessary, some reversing techniques can also be used. When reversing a semi trailer, it is also best to have a person get off the vehicle to command it. Reverse slowly, calmly, and not in a hurry to succeed. Let's learn about the methods, techniques, and precautions for reversing a semi trailer.


  Methods and Techniques for Reversing Semi Trailers


I. Methods and Techniques for Reversing Semi Trailers

As a type of cargo transportation vehicle, semi trailers have a large volume and are difficult to control, especially when reversing. How can semi trailers reverse?


1. Reverse method for semi trailers

A. Semi trailer reversing in parallel to the right

First, turn the direction to the left, then slowly reverse. When one-third of the front of the trailer appears in the left rearview mirror, stop and turn the direction to the right, slowly reverse. When the trailer and front are in a straight line, turn the direction back to the right, slightly reverse it, then turn the direction back to the right, then turn it back to the left, and adjust it several times while reversing.

B. Straight reverse of semi trailer

Firstly, straighten the entire vehicle and look at the left and right rearview mirrors when reversing. When reversing a semi trailer, the steering wheel should be turned in the opposite direction to the direction of the trailer house. If the trailer house appears in the left rearview mirror, it indicates that the vehicle has deviated to the left and should be turned to the left, so that the trailer will turn to the right. If the rear of the vehicle appears in the right rearview mirror, it indicates that it has deviated to the right and should be turned to the right. The rear of the vehicle should be turned to the left, and the direction should not be too large. The reversing speed should be slow, This allows for time and distance adjustment.


2.Tips for reversing a semi trailer

1) Before reversing, it is necessary to adjust the front and body of the vehicle, try to keep the front and trailer straight as much as possible, or the front of the vehicle should be pointed towards the side of the target parking space. When reversing, it is important to grasp the position and direction of the vehicle and keep a good eye on the rearview mirror.

2) If reversing to the left, turn the steering wheel clockwise; When reversing to the right, turn the steering wheel counterclockwise. Be careful not to hit the wrong direction, as semi trailers are also corrected while reversing. If you can't turn around, lift the car forward and then back it up again.

3) If the parking space is on the right, then when reversing, the steering wheel should be turned to the left to see the gap between the right rear wheel and the road crossing. When you see the right rear wheel of the trailer entering the parking space, turn the direction faster to quickly align the body, and pay attention to the left wheel of the trailer. When the rear body is about to be aligned, quickly turn back the wheels so that both the body and the front of the car can be aligned. If it is still not aligned, just readjust it.

4) When driving a semi trailer, whether walking forward or backwards, it is important to have a clear understanding of the surrounding situation and maintain a good attitude. At all times, it is important to remain calm and composed, and if you cannot reverse one hand, you should take more.


II. What to pay attention to when reversing a semi trailer

  1. When reversing a semi trailer, it is best to avoid reversing alone. It is best to find a person to get off and command, and always pay attention to the direction of reversing, in order to make it easier to reverse; If there is only one person, it is important to observe the surrounding environment and ensure that there are no obstacles or people backing in the vicinity to prevent accidents.

  2. Slow down when reversing, don't rush for success

  3. Calm down and maintain a calm and composed attitude. Do not kill the steering wheel at once, but slowly turn the steering wheel.



The above are the precautions for reversing a semi trailer. The body of the semi trailer is relatively large and requires high driving skills, especially when reversing, it is important to pay attention to safety.

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