You must perform a full safety check: Drivers must inspect the fifth wheel locking mechanism, electrical lines, air brake couplings, and support legs before moving to ensure safe connection.

You must use proper mirrors and signals: Reversing requires careful use of wide-angle mirrors and, when possible, a spotter or audible warning. Failing to do so may result in collisions or fines.

You must reduce speed and be alert: Semi-trailers have a wide turning radius. In urban or narrow zones, drivers must slow down and may need to use multi-point turns to prevent property damage or injury.

You need a special permit and escort if required: Oversized or overweight vehicles must obtain préfecture authorization and may need pilot vehicles, especially when traveling on national or departmental roads.

You must use engine braking: To avoid brake overheating, truck drivers must use retarder systems or engine braking on long descents, especially in the Alps or Massif Central.

You must slow down gradually without braking sharply: Sudden braking can worsen trailer sway. Drivers should ease off the accelerator, keep the wheel steady, and allow the trailer to stabilize naturally.

You must stop and inspect the braking system: ABS is critical for truck-trailer combinations. An illuminated warning light may indicate a serious brake malfunction, requiring immediate attention.

You must apply trailer brakes and wheel chocks: Proper parking involves securing the trailer with its own brakes and additional wheel stops, especially on sloped or unstable surfaces.

You must account for handling differences: An empty trailer has different braking behavior and is more prone to skidding or bouncing. Drivers must adapt speed and control accordingly.

You must balance the load evenly: An uneven load distribution can cause instability, sway, or rollover. Drivers must check that cargo is spread across axles and secured tightly to prevent shifting in transit.

You must not operate the vehicle until fixed: Functioning tail lights, indicators, and brake lights are legally required. Driving with faulty lights endangers others and may lead to fines or accidents.

You must use hazard lights and proper reflective gear: When connecting trailers in dark or foggy areas, drivers must wear high-visibility clothing and activate hazard lights to prevent being struck by other vehicles.

You must reduce speed and straighten the trailer: Jackknifing happens when the trailer swings out of alignment. To prevent this, slow down before curves, avoid harsh braking, and maintain trailer alignment.

You must confirm correct pressure and response: Before setting off, drivers must confirm air brake pressure levels and that the trailer brakes activate properly. This ensures safety in emergency situations.

You must avoid routes with low bridges or overhangs: French road signs mark height restrictions. Drivers must plan their route to avoid structures lower than their vehicle’s height, or risk serious damage and legal penalties.

You must stop and repair or call assistance: Continuing with a loose or damaged coupling risks trailer separation. Drivers are obligated to stop immediately and take corrective action.

You must take a wide turn and watch for blind spots: Articulated trucks need wide turning arcs. Failure to account for the trailer’s path may result in hitting curbs, signs, or pedestrians in blind zones.

You must comply with local noise restrictions: Some towns in France prohibit the use of engine brakes within residential zones due to noise. Drivers must use conventional braking in those areas.

You must inflate them before continuing the journey: Underinflated trailer tires increase fuel use, reduce handling control, and raise the risk of blowouts. Daily tire pressure checks are a legal and safety requirement.