Get to the Point! It’s a fine line getting from Point A to Point B and then back home again safely.
Starting Point: Buckle Up!
Point A – Before you even put your foot on the pedal, click the metal to the metal. It’s just about the most important thing you can do. Period. That strap is the one thing that can make the difference between you either walking away or having to be carted away, from a crash.
Pit Stop – “Though we’ve made great strides, we won’t rest until 100% of commercial motor vehicle drivers wear a seat belt 100% of the time.” -Mary E. Peters, Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation
Click It or Ticket Campaign – If that isn’t reason enough for you we don’t know what is. Click it or Ticket. One way or another you will pay in the end it’s just a matter of what price you are willing to pay.
Point B Set your Bearings! – Both your mind and your vehicle have to be in a safe mindset. Pre-inspect your vehilce and check for load securement. Inspect your vehicle before each trip and check your brakes regularly. Learn how to inspect your brakes, identify safety defects, and get them repaired before risking your life and others on the highway.
Point C Running on Empty – You wouldn’t drive your truck on empty so why would you let yourself drive on empty? The most important part of a moving truck or bus is the driver! Get plenty of rest before getting behind the wheel. Eat well and stay fit. Remember, fatigue and hours of service violations are serious and can threaten your livelihood or even your life. Stay healthy and well rested, or don’t drive!
Point D Watch out for the Blind Spot – Adjust your mirrors and know your blind spots. Some are so large that a car can virtually disappear from your view. So take extra precautions when changing lanes. Don’t drive blind!
Point E Keep you distance – Always leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you. If you hit someone from behind, you are typically considered “at fault,” regardless of the situation. Large trucks require more stopping distances than other vehicles. Take advantage of your driving height, and anticipate braking situations.
Pit stop – “Research shows that most fatal crashes stem from decisions or actions made by the driver, passenger vehicle drivers, as well as commercial operators. All drivers need to remember that the responsibility for driving safely is literally in your hands.” -John H. Hill, Administrator, U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Driving the Point HOME: It’s all up to you! Don’t let your ETA be the factor in being DOA. We’re all on this road together so share it safely.
