Driver and vehicle fitness the keys to safety
By: Curt Roush
Date: 1996-09-09
Safe driving is a mix of three factors: a mechanically fit vehicle, and a driver who is physiologically and psychologically sound. For example, it is not only important that your brakes are in working order, but also that your eyes are not tired or your stress level too high due to traffic conditions.
Many unsafe driving behaviors are obvious: for example, speeding, reckless lane changing, or drinking and driving. By avoiding these habits, we can make driving safer. Being mentally and physically prepared for driving is a good way to prevent accidents.
Consider fatigue. When you're tired, or low on energy, you have a greater risk of falling asleep at the wheel. Physical work combined with missing lunch or neglecting to take breaks will contribute to drowsiness. Your reflexes will slow and you are more likely to misjudge traffic conditions.
Your number-one priority while driving should be staying alert and attentive. It will help if you are well rested and your vehicle well ventilated. You may avoid eye fatigue by varying the focus of your concentration on the road rather than staring at a single point in front of you. Checking your mirrors periodically will also relieve fatigue.
In bright sunlight or snow glare, wear good-quality sunglasses that reduce glare and ultraviolet rays. If you find yourself becoming drowsy due to the monotony of driving, try playing the radio, singing loud or taking a passenger.
When you become too tired, stop the truck, get out and stretch your legs, eat, or get a coffee. If all else fails, it's time for a nap. A majority of truck accidents are caused by drivers falling asleep at the wheel. Better to get there late than not at all. There is no load so important that you should risk your life or the lives of others.
You should plan stops during long trips and, if you have a co-driver, turn the wheel over to him/her before you get too tired.
Plan your route on trips to unfamiliar areas. This will help you get to your destination as efficiently and safely as possible without having to worry about where you are going. Too much time spent searching for street signs or highway exits is a dangerous distraction.
Reducing stress behind the wheel is extremely important. The best strategy for fighting stress is to learn to live with inevitable traffic delays. It helps to know that other drivers are also frustrated and that traffic congestion is not a conspiracy against you alone. If traffic jams cause you considerable stress, you can try to avoid them by finding an alternative route or changing your departure time.
Your driving goal should be to arrive safely. The key to success is trip preparation, adequate rest, avoiding distractions and taking interruptions in stride.
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