Good Driving Equals Low Costs
- Annette Satterly
With winter approaching, it's important to relearn how to drive in changing conditions. Our goal is to reduce the likelihood of vehicle incidents and accidents, avoiding the escalating costs of repairs and potential injuries to employees and others.
Here are combined insights from fleet management companies and my own recommendations for defensive driving:
- Slow Down!
- Stay alert and be prepared. Driving frequently can lead to complacency.
- Prevent distractions. Stay focused by predicting the actions of others. Never text and drive!
- Look farther ahead. Focus on where you’ll be in 12-15 seconds to scan for hazards.
- Predict risks and plan responses. Ask, “What would I do if...?”
- Maintain a safe following distance. The DOT recommends at least four seconds at 40 mph; add one second for every 10 mph of speed, and two seconds in adverse conditions. Allow that “cushion” of space to prevent running into other vehicles, poles, fences, etc.
- Check for blind spots. Look over your shoulder; don't rely only on mirrors.
- Avoid driving in blind spots. If you can’t see the driver’s mirror, they can’t see you.
- Drive with your lights on. This makes you more visible. For buses, use the strobe lights.
- Scan intersections. Pedestrians or drivers running red lights may be present.
- Drive at the appropriate speed, not the posted speed. In doubt, slow down—especially at night to spot wildlife.
- Plan for the weather. Allow more time when conditions are wet, snowy, or icy. Weather can change quickly.
- Avoid backing up. Pull forward and through, especially in a bus. If you must back up, do so slowly and check for visibility.
- Give stopped vehicles time to move. Don’t pass unless necessary. Be aware of others passing you.
- If passing or swerving, move right. This avoids oncoming traffic.
- Ensure others see you. Don’t assume eye contact guarantees they noticed you.
- Avoid risky drivers. Steer clear of drivers who seem tired, impaired, or unsafe.
- Yield to aggressive drivers. Engaging them isn’t worth the risk.
- Rest and manage fatigue. Sleep well before long trips and take breaks to recharge.
- Follow laws and wear seatbelts.
- Report accidents. If an incident occurs, follow the district's procedures. MSGIA’s app allows quick reporting for insurance.
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References -
Smith System: Drive Different Save Lives
Lytx
DefensiveDriving.org
Drivingtests.org
Prime Insurance Company
School Bus Fleet Company
Larry Ferguson, Driver Instructor Extraordinaire