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.
- 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:
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.