Driving Safety Tips

Smoothness-The Mark of the Professional Driver
If a full glass of water was placed on the floor of your vehicle, how long could you drive in traffic without spilling it? We're sure you'll be quick to agree that it would take a pretty "smooooth" driving performance not only to keep from spilling any of the water but to keep from toppling the glass.

The kind of driving it takes to keep from spilling a glass of water is the kind of driving that marks the true professional driver. It's not difficult to pick the professional out from the other drivers on the road. Starts, stops, change of lanes and turns are all handled in a smooth manner—in a way that reduces accident producing conflicts to a minimum.

Driving Errors Can Be Avoided - But Defensive Skill is Needed

It takes a lot more than just driving skill to be a smooth driver. To obtain the mark of the true professional, a driver must first have the correct mental attitude about driving. Don't become irritated or impatient with other drivers. Maintain an even frame of mind every second you are behind the wheel.

The smooth driver must learn to anticipate ahead. Anticipate the need for a slowdown or a stop. Plan turns and a change of lanes in advance. The driver who is rear-ended after a sudden stop most surely must share in the responsibility for the accident—if the sudden stop could have been avoided by anticipating ahead.

Smooth Driving has other Benefits

Safety is not the only benefit to be derived from a smooth driving performance. Smooth drivers quickly discover what vehicle operating and maintenance costs are reduced—the most noticeable economies being more tire life and additional gas mileage.

And, smooth drivers are better fitted for other duties. They are relaxed—more efficient—when dealing with customers by avoiding tension behind the wheel.

Wear the Mark of the True Professional

Because of the nature of your work, you have been categorized as a "professional" driver. As a professional, a smooth driving performance has become a necessary attribute—it no longer can be considered only desirable. Your responsibility to yourself and your family, the other drivers around you and to your company—demands it!

Be Identified as a true Professional every time you drive.

Never be guilty of sudden, unexpected maneuvers.

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