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October 4, 2024

Why Driver Training Is Crucial For Employee Safety On The Road

When you’re driving a company vehicle, you’re not just driving for yourself—you’re representing your company. Whether it’s a company truck or car, your actions behind the wheel matter. Following speed limits, wearing seatbelts, and avoiding distractions are just a few key rules to remember. But what about everything else? Here’s how to stay safe and professional while driving for work.

Let’s get clear on what’s expected when you’re behind the wheel of a company vehicle.

Before you ever get behind the wheel of a company vehicle, make sure you’re legally authorized to drive, both for work and personal use. Your company will handle insurance and registration, but it’s up to you to follow the rules of the road and your company’s safety policies.

Think back to your last drive—were you always in control? Did you follow safety procedures? While you’re driving a company vehicle, you should be more alert than usual. Stick to speed limits, avoid distractions like your phone or loud music, and make sure you’re following your company’s procedures in case of an accident.

Staying on top of vehicle maintenance is a must.

Before you hit the road, always check that your vehicle is in good condition. Spotting problems early can help prevent accidents, so get into the habit of performing quick vehicle inspections regularly.

A basic checklist could include:

By catching any issues before they become serious, you’re not just protecting yourself, but also everyone else on the road.

Keep your eyes open with these defensive driving tips.

When you’re driving a company vehicle, you need to be extra cautious and alert to what’s happening around you. Defensive driving is all about being prepared for potential hazards, whether it’s poor road conditions, heavy traffic, or unpredictable drivers.

Here’s how to stay on top of your defensive driving game:

Remember, you’re not just driving for yourself—you’re representing your company. Keeping these tips in mind will help ensure you’re driving safely.

Here’s what to watch for when assessing an at-risk driver.

Supervisors and safety teams play a key role in keeping drivers safe. If someone on the team exhibits risky driving behavior, it’s important to assess the situation. A quick way to evaluate risk is to follow the “4 C’s”:

Addressing risky behavior quickly ensures everyone on the road stays safe.

Never lose sight of pedestrians.

Pedestrians always have the right of way. Whether delivering packages or driving a work vehicle through busy streets, you must stay alert to those on foot. Come to a complete stop at all stop signs—yes, even in parking lots—and wait for pedestrians to cross completely before moving forward.

Be extra cautious in areas with heavy foot traffic, as distracted pedestrians may not always be paying attention. Slow down, be ready to stop, and keep your eyes on the road.

Play it smart, stay sharp, and stick to the rules.

When driving a company vehicle, it’s all about staying safe and alert. From regular vehicle checks to defensive driving techniques, taking these steps ensures your safety and the safety of everyone on the road.

Let’s recap:

When you follow these safety rules, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re protecting everyone on the road and representing your company well. Learn safe driving techniques, including operational expectations, vehicle maintenance, and defensive driving, with our Driver Training: Employee Safety Training Course!


References

For more on vehicle and workplace safety, check out these helpful resources:

  1. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Motor Vehicle Safety
  2. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – Roadway Safety
  3. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) – Driver Safety

These references are your go-to sources for staying safe on the road and ensuring your company meets all necessary driving safety standards. Stay informed and drive safe!

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