Driving Defensively

According to the National Safety Council, more than 41,000 people lose their lives and over 2,000,000 more suffer disabling injuries in motor vehicle accidents each year. The threats of high speeds, impaired or careless
driving and not using occupant restraints threaten every driver —regardless of how careful or skilled.

• Driving defensively means not only taking responsibility for yourself but also keeping an eye on “the other guy.” The following are guidelines to help reduce your risks on the road:
• Do not start the engine without securing each passenger in the car, including children and pets. Safety belts save thousands of lives each year! Lock all doors.
• Remember that driving too fast or too slow can increase the likelihood of collisions.
• Follow the rules of the road. Do not contest the “right of way” or try to race another car during a merge. Be respectful of other motorists.
• Do not follow too closely. Always use a “three-second plus following distance.”
• While driving, be cautious, aware and responsible.
• If you plan to drink, designate a driver who will not drink. Alcohol is a factor in almost half of all fatal motor vehicle crashes.
• Be alert! If you notice that a car is straddling the centerline, weaving, making wide turns, stopping abruptly or responding slowly to traffic signals, the driver may be impaired.
• Avoid an impaired driver by turning right at the nearest corner or exiting at the nearest exit. If it appears that an oncoming car is crossing into your lane, pull over to the roadside, sound the horn and flash your lights.
• Notify the police immediately after seeing a motorist who is driving suspiciously.

A safe, roadworthy vehicle is an indispensable part of driving safely. If the vehicle is unsafe, the driver and others on the road are at risk. Keep your vehicles properly maintained and follow the auto manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes, tune-ups, and so on. Also, be sure to inspect your vehicles frequently between service checkups. Look for the following:

• Are the tires in good condition and are they inflated properly?
• Are headlights and taillights clean and working?
• Are turn signals and emergency flashers operating properly?
• Are oil, coolant, brake, and other fluids at the correct level?
• Are belts and wires in good condition?
• Are the brakes work working properly?

Someone dies in a motor vehicle accident every 12 minutes; an injury occurs every 10 seconds and a crash occurs every 5 seconds. Many of these accidents occur during the workday or during the commute to and from work. Defensive driving is must for all employees at all levels.