Running in Tandem Guidelines
When running in tandem, please follow these guidelines to ensure EVERYONE'S SAFETY.
1 | Identify the Lead Driver
Before leaving, make sure everyone knows who the lead driver is.
The lead driver is responsible for:
- coordinating the group
- making any necessary phone calls if the tandem becomes separated
If you are the second vehicle in the tandem and become separated, continue following your assigned route in Roadnet. Do not speed or make unsafe maneuvers to catch up. The lead driver should pull over at a safe, legal location a short distance ahead on the route and contact you so the group can regroup safely.
2 | Obey All Traffic Laws
Never violate traffic signs, speed limits, or any other traffic laws.
Safety always comes first.
If the lead driver proceeds through an intersection on a yellow light and it turns red before you reach it, stop for the red light. Do not drive through the intersection to keep up with the lead vehicle. Continue following your Roadnet route, and you will catch up safely.
3 | If You Get Separated, STAY CALM
Do not panic.
Continue driving safely & follow your assigned Roadnet route.
If you are unable to locate the lead driver:
- pull over only when you find a safe & legal place to stop
- once safely parked, wait for the lead driver to contact you with instructions
If you become separated and cannot find the lead driver while following your Roadnet route, pull over at a safe location. The lead driver will call you and coordinate a safe meeting location. If the lead driver calls while you are driving, do not answer the phone. Continue to the next safe location, park legally, and then return the call.
4 | Allow Other Vehicles to Merge
If another vehicle gets between the trucks, let it happen.
It is never worth risking an accident or incident to stay together.
If another driver is aggressively trying to merge between your truck and the lead vehicle, allow them to merge. Maintain a safe following distance and continue driving normally. The tandem can regroup naturally when traffic allows.
5 | Choose Parking Carefully
Choose a safe & legal parking location that can accommodate every vehicle in the tandem.
If any vehicle cannot fit safely,
do not try to squeeze into the space.
Find another location instead.
If you are the last vehicle in the tandem and the other units have already parked, but there is not enough room for your truck to park safely, do not force your vehicle into the space. Continue to a nearby safe parking area and notify the lead driver of your location.
6 | Take Photos Safely
Photos are important, but never force the issue.
If you cannot immediately find a safe and legal place to stop, continue driving until you find one.
Safety always comes before getting pictures.
If you arrive at a location where parking is prohibited or signs state "No Parking" or "No Trucks," do not stop there to take photos. Continue until you find a safe and legal location to park before taking any pictures.
REMEMBER THE GOAL!
THE GOAL: EVERYONE ARRIVES SAFELY
Nothing is more important than following the law & protecting yourself, your teammates & everyone else on the road.
Following these guidelines will help ensure every tandem trip is completed safely & professionally.