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Safe Driving Tips That Fleets Need to Know

Mar 27, 2024 | 3 min read

Safe driving requires vital skills that can help prevent vehicle accidents and save lives. Every person who operates a vehicle is responsible for learning and honing these skills—especially those who drive fleet vehicles daily for work. But whether you’re a veteran driver or freshly behind the wheel, there’s always room for improvement.

 

Consider the following safe driving practices and whether you or your drivers need to adjust some on-the-road habits:

 

1. Drive defensively: One of the fundamental principles of safe driving is adopting a defensive driving mindset. This means staying alert, anticipating potential hazards, and being prepared to react swiftly to unexpected situations. Defensive drivers are less likely to get into accidents because they prioritize safety over speed.

 

2. Avoid Distractions: Distracted driving is a leading cause of fatal accidents.1083 Put away your phone, avoid eating while driving, limit conversations with passengers when navigating tricky situations, and keep your attention where it belongs: on the road.

 

3. Obey Speed Limits: Speeding is a common factor in many accidents.1084 Always adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions, weather, and traffic flow. It is better to arrive a little late than not at all.

 

4. Keep a Routine Maintenance Schedule: Regular vehicle maintenance is essential for safe driving. Ensure your brakes, tires, lights, and steering wheel are in good working condition. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to break down or lose control on the road.

 

5. Use Signals Properly: Turn signals are crucial for communicating your intentions to other drivers. Always use them when changing lanes, merging onto highways, or making turns. Proper signaling helps prevent accidents caused by confusion or misinterpretation.

 

6. Keep a Safe Following Distance: Maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you allows you ample time to react to sudden stops or emergencies. This is especially important for those driving larger vehicles or towing heavy loads: As a vehicle’s mass increases, so must the braking distance. All new drivers should be trained on the proper braking distances.

 

7. Adjust to Weather Conditions: Different weather conditions require different driving techniques. In rain, snow, or fog, reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Use your headlights in low-visibility conditions and ensure your windshield wipers are in good working order. Understanding how weather affects your vehicle is crucial for safe driving.

 

8. Avoid Fatigue: Fatigue can impair your ability to adhere to safe driving practices. On long journeys, take regular breaks to rest and refresh. A well-rested driver is more alert and less prone to making errors on the road.

 

Becoming a safer driver benefits you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. By working to refine each of the skills above every time you or one of your drivers gets behind the wheel, you can reduce your risk of accidents and contribute to a safer driving environment for all.

 
Get in touch with us online at Ford ProTM Insure456 or call 1-800-301-2618 to learn more about safe driving practices for fleet safety.

Disclosure(s)

  1. 1)

    “Distracted Driving.” U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Accessed March 7, 2024. https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving

  2. 2)

    "Speeding." U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Accessed March 7, 2024. https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/speeding

  3. 3)

    "Ford Pro Insure" is a brand of commercial auto policies issued by The American Road Insurance Company (“TARIC”) (NAIC 19631), an admitted insurance carrier and subsidiary of Ford Motor Company and Ford Credit. Ford Pro Insure policies are sold and administered by Pie Insurance Services, Inc. (“Pie Insurance”), a licensed insurance producer and non-affiliate of TARIC. (Licenses available at pieinsurance.com/legal/). Information provided is subject to Pie’s and TARIC’s privacy policies (pieinsurance.com/privacy and fordpro.com/privacy). Not available in all states and situations. Coverage subject to policy terms and conditions.