Toolbox Talk: Motor Vehicle Safety

Motor Vehicle Safety

Vehicles are a huge part of our daily lives. From running errands to getting to and from work, most people in America drive a vehicle. Most jobs in the construction industry require driving as part of the daily routine, which is considered Occupational Transportation. 

In 2019 there were 2,122 deaths from Occupational Transportation incidents. Motor Vehicle accidents make up the largest segment of annual workplace fatalities at 39%. US Bureau of Labor Statistics 

Vehicle crashes have effects that reach far beyond the drivers. The injuries from a serious wreck can affect your family life, your long term health, and in some cases make future employment difficult. The strain it causes on the company to replace the vehicle, pay for increased insurance, or reschedule the jobs they are missing in its absence. 

General Safe Driving Tips

• Avoid distractions while the vehicle is moving – Don’t attempt to eat your lunch, stay off your phone (includes texting, emailing, social media, or finding the right song or podcast) 
• Always wear your seatbelt – Wearing your seatbelt reduces serious crash related injuries by about 50%
• Keep your windows and mirrors clean – Dirty windows and mirrors make driving very dangerous, especially if you are driving with a trailer.
• Maintain a well kept interior  – Loose items that can roll or blow around the cab of the vehicle are distracting and dangerous if they make their way to the drivers feet. Keep the dashboard clear too.
• Drive Defensively – Not aggressively. Always leave enough room to stop, and leave a way out. If an accident happened in front of you, can you avoid it quickly?
• NEVER operate a vehicle when impaired by alcohol, drugs (perscription or otherwise), or when extremely fatigued. 

Motor vehicle accidents can happen at any speed, any time of the day, to any one. Do your part to be a safe driver. Rarely does an accident only affect one person, think about all of the other lives are at stake. When you are operating a company vehicle on company time it does become a work related incident, a lot more is on the line than a dented fender and a headache. 

Questions for you

1. How many people do you know have been involved in a car accident?
2. How can you be a better, less distracted, driver at work and outside? Will you start?

You might also find another Toolbox Talk helpful: Traffic Spotter