Has a rock ever caused you to roll? A driver and his wife from Kermit, TX was south of Barstow, CA deadheading to Henderson, NV for a load. The sun was setting behind the mountains. Up ahead of him, about 1/2 mile, was a rock hauler with a heavy load of broken concrete. It looked like residue from a construction site. 

He looked out across the desert and admired the colors. He thought, "Even deserts have a certain beauty." As he looked back, he saw a large rock directly in front of him and he swerved left to miss it. The tractor missed the piece of concrete, however, the sharp turn put the trailer into a jackknife to his right. In the ensuing moments, he lost control and the tractor rolled over on the driver's side. A more horrendous screeching noise has never been heard by man or beast as the tractor and trailer came sliding to a halt on the interstate. 

Then ... the sound of silence. His wife lay on top of him. They both concluded they were not injured. A large piece of concrete had fallen from the rear of the rock trailer when it hit a slight bump in the highway. Sure, we can say that the driver was not paying attention, but there is more to it. 

   1.    To often, many of us are distracted even when we think we are alert. Ever wonder what took place over the last mile? But, you were alert ... you thought. Your mind can play tricks on you. 

   2.    To ensure alertness, look constantly to the left and to the right mentally acknowledging what you see. Check your mirrors and talk to drivers on the road or to your co-driver. 

   3.    Take breaks periodically. Don't let the open road rob you of your break just because there is not a truck stop. Find a place you can completely get off the interstate for a few minutes. 

Bottom line: Let the 50's take care of the rock and roll, you take care of the rpms and road. 

That's the way I see it - Bob Hataway - TransAlive.