Statistics over the last decade have consistently shown that motor vehicle incidents cause more traumatic injuries and fatalities to workers each year than any other type of event. Having a driver’s license does not always ensure common sense and responsibility on the road – it is the job of each driver to drive safely and be aware of their surroundings, because things can happen behind the wheel in a split second.
The more that people adopt good driving habits, the more incidences of traffic accidents can be reduced. Safe driving does not just protect your life and the lives of others, it can help you avoid hefty fines or even imprisonment for traffic violations, and save money by helping to keep insurance premiums lower.
Even minor accidents that cause no injuries can have long lasting negative effects including financial, legal and psychological consequences like long-lasting trauma, phobias, anxiety or fear. When you focus on driving carefully, you are taking care of your safety, as well as the security of your passengers and other road users.
If you drive throughout your work day, please consider the following safe driving recommendations:
- Keep vehicles up to date with maintenance.
- Make sure that you have up to date insurance, and keep a copy of this inside your vehicle.
- Use winter tires in the winter months.
- Keep an emergency kit in the car.
- Conduct daily inspections and make sure your car is in good working order before you leave your home.
- Leave extra time in winter/inclement weather to eliminate any need to rush. If you are running late, and not able to make it to your next client’s on time, please call the office to let us know you are running behind and do not rush/drive unsafely to get to a client’s on time.
- Try to identify any unsafe driver practices you have picked up along the way and make a continuing effort to correct them.
- Drive defensively and anticipate the action of other drivers. Be courteous toward other drivers and pedestrians.
- Take care of yourself emotionally and physically. Driving, like any activity, is affected by your physical and mental well-being. Get adequate rest and stay calm. Stress and anxiety can impact your driving habits, and may increase your aggression and impact your attention.
- Learn and practice ways to reduce driving stresses.
- When you are driving for work, report near misses (near accidents), minor injuries and unsafe conditions to your supervisor.
- Follow the rules of the road and Circle of Care’s Safe Operating Procedures for Driving.
- If you are driving to an unfamiliar place, plan your route in advance.
- Fill up when your gas tank is half empty.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Avoid taking medications that cause drowsiness. Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Minimize outside distractions – don’t answer phone calls, text messages or browse social media even when waiting at a traffic light.