You are your employer’s most valuable asset!  The way that you drive says everything about you and your company.  Make a positive statement by following these work-related safe driving practices:

Stay Safe

• Use a seat belt at all times – driver and passenger(s).
• Be well-rested before driving.
• Avoid taking medications that make you drowsy.
  • Those that do have a label warning against operating vehicles or machinery.
  • The most common medicine of this type is an ordinary cold pill.  If you have to drive with a cold, you are better off suffering from the cold than from the effects of the medicine.
• A hot, poorly ventilated cab can make you sleepy.  Keep the window or vent cracked or use the air conditioner if you have one.
• Set a realistic goal for the number of miles that you can drive safely each day.
  • Driving for long distances can be very tiring, which can lead to increased potential for accidents.  Because of this, driving limits for all drivers are as follows:
    • Daytime travel:       3 hours at one time
    • Nighttime travel:    2 hours at one time
  • Within 15 minutes of reaching a driving limit, the driver should exit the highway to a rest area.  The driver must take at least a 15-minute break or another approved driver should assume driving responsibilities.
    • Short breaks can keep you alert.
    • But the time to take them is before you feel really drowsy or tired.
    • Stop often.
    • Walk around and inspect your vehicle. 
    • It can help to do some physical exercises.
  • When the total trip is expected to be completed within 30 minutes beyond the appropriate driving limit, one driver may drive the entire trip without a break.  However, if poor visibility or heavy traffic threatens to lengthen the trip, the driver should exit the highway to a rest area within the normal driving limits.
  • No driver may exceed eight (8) total hours driving time in any 24-hour period.

Stay Focused

• Driving requires your full attention.  Avoid distractions such as adjusting the radio or other controls, eating or drinking.
• Continually search the roadway to be alert to situations requiring quick action.
• Stop about every two hours for a break.  Get out of the vehicle to stretch, take a walk, and get refreshed.

Avoid Aggressive Driving

• Keep your cool in traffic!
• Be patient and courteous to other drivers.
• Do not take other drivers’ actions personally
• Reduce your stress by planning your route ahead of time (bring the maps and directions), allowing plenty of travel time, and avoiding crowded roadways and busy driving times.