During National Safety Month, Safe Driving Tips and Some Sobering Statistics

Safe driving techniques are important whether you are getting behind the wheel of a company vehicle or your own car. With more and more people crowding the roads and highways, it may come as no surprise that the leading cause of death for people under the age of 35 is motor vehicle traffic crashes (according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration). Motor vehicle accidents also remain the number one preventable cause of death.

Driving Safety
Practice safe driving techniques every time you get behind the wheel of a company vehicle or your own car. With over 59,000 vehicles, Verizon has one of the largest commercial fleets in the nation. So, when you’re driving a company vehicle, your safe and courteous driving can keep you and your passengers protected and enhance Verizon’s reputation. Remember to always wear your safety belt – whether you’re driving or riding as a passenger.

Sobering Statistics
Here are a few facts from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration that highlight the importance of safe driving:

FACT: Motor vehicle traffic crashes are the #1 killer of those under 35.

FACT: Alcohol was a factor in more than 40 percent of the 43,000 deaths resulting from motor vehicle accidents.
FACT: There were 6.2 million motor vehicle accidents, with 1.8 million accidents resulting in injuries.
FACT: The top three factors involved in fatal crashes are, driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication; speeding; and failing to keep in a proper lane.
FACT: Over 16,000 lives were saved by using safety belts or child restraints. Another 6,000 lives could have been saved if safety devices had been used.
FACT: Light utility trucks and SUVs are most likely to be involved in rollover accidents and result in the most fatalities – 35% of all deaths in rollover accidents.
[Based on 2005 nationwide data.]

Safe Driving Tips
Don’t drink and drive.
Wear your seat belt and make sure your passengers do the same – even if you’re just going around the corner.
Obey the speed limit and other traffic laws.
Slow down on roads in poor condition, in bad weather and in congested areas. Increase the distance between you and the vehicle you’re following by doubling the usual three-second rule to a six-second interval.
When you’re driving – just drive. Avoid multi-tasking. If you’re tired, pull off to a safe place and rest.
Don’t reach under or behind the seat to retrieve things or turn around to talk to passengers.
Know the side effects of any medication you’re taking, and be alert for any symptoms of impairment, such as drowsiness, excitability, altered depth perception and altered reaction time. Many over-the-counter drugs can impair driving, particularly antihistamines and cough and cold preparations.
Vans and SUVs are different from cars. You’re seated higher with limited visibility. Know your vehicle and allow for clearance of roof racks and mirrors. Do a “circle check” – a 360-degree walk-around – before moving your vehicle.
Drive Defensively
More people than ever are crowding the roads and highways. And, motor vehicle accidents remain the number one preventable cause of death. With a little common sense, a lot of patience and respect for others on the road, you can greatly reduce the risks you take when driving.