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Defensive driving is driving to prevent accidents in spite of
the incorrect actions of others or adverse driving conditions, such
as weather, traffic, lighting, vehicle or road condition, or the
driver's physical or mental state. The defensive driver assumes that
other drivers may make mistakes and is on guard in the event an
error is made.
Your safety program should include defensive driver training on the
proper way to make turns. Making left or right turns with long
vehicles creates problems that automobile drivers do not have. Blind
spots make it difficult to see other vehicles, and vehicle length
forces drivers to make wide turns, encroaching upon adjacent lanes
of traffic.
The tracking path of a long vehicle makes it difficult for the
driver to judge position. Turning also takes longer to complete,
thus increasing exposure time to hazards. Drivers should recognize
the hazards created while turning and follow proper procedures to
minimize them. Here are some areas that should be addressed regarding
defensive driving and tips to help your drivers become defensive drivers.
Management issues
- Have your drivers been trained regarding safe turning procedures?
- Do you know if your drivers are practicing safe turning procedures?
- Do you periodically have qualified personnel ride with your drivers to assess their driving habits?
- Do drivers properly adjust mirrors and perform a pre-trip inspection to assure that all lights are functioning properly?
- Have you examined routes used to minimize travel and turning at difficult or hazardous intersections?
- Have you considered attaching Wide Right Turn decals on rear of vehicles?
- Are drivers aware of the concept of a preventable accident? A preventable accident is one in which the driver failed to exercise every reasonable precaution to prevent the accident. This is irrespective of the extent of property damage or personal injury, to whom it occurred or the location of the accident.
Driver tips
To be a defensive driver while making turns, drivers should:
- Always use turn signals well in advance of the turn.
- Check mirrors to help assure that other drivers are aware of their intentions.
- For right turns:
- Move to the right lane well in advance of the intersection, so they are positioned to make a safe turn.
- Keep rear of vehicle to the right to block other vehicles from passing on the right.
- Wait for other vehicles to clear, if encroaching upon other lanes, and then turn slowly.
- Be careful that improper tracking does not cause the vehicle or trailer to ride up onto a curb or strike stationary objects.
- For left turns:
- Do not start turning until there is enough time for the rear of the vehicle to clear the intersection without forcing opposing drivers to slow down or swerve.
- Do not assume opposing drivers will see them.
- Be careful that improper tracking does not cause the vehicle or trailer to interfere with pedestrians, other vehicles or stationary objects.
COPYRIGHT ©2005, ISO Services Properties, Inc.
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