DRIVER'S  SAFETY  MANUAL

Anthony M. Brida, Inc.

 

 

                This Defensive Driving Manual has been set up for Anthony M. Brida, Inc. drivers in order to establish traffic safety awareness. 

 

Several topics covered within this manual are:

 

 

 

 

 

 

          Don't stop here, as excellent as your driving skills may be, there's always a way you can keep improving.  Develop good, sound safety practices.  After all, you are a Professional Driver and a member of the Anthony M. Brida's "Safety First" Driver's Team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE  PRACTICE  OF DEFENSIVE DRIVING

 

          The definition of Defensive Driving is "Driving to save lives, time, and money in spite of the conditions around you or the actions of others."

 

          The mark of the Defensive Driver is to be prepared with an appropriate action or actions when an actual hazard situation confronts you or when you perceive a possible hazard developing in your travel path.

 

 

          The six adverse driving conditions are:

 

 

          Over driving headlights results in more night time collisions than are caused by drivers who fall asleep.  Weather and Atmospheric conditions, glare and fatigue all contribute to less efficient vision during darkness than in daylight hours.

 

          Guide Rules for night are:

 

1.   The amount of artificial and natural light available can affect your ability to see.  You must adjust your driving or you could be involved in an accident.

 

2.    Keep all lights clean and in good working condition.  Remember see and be seen.  In Connecticut, 1987, a law was passed that all vehicles must use headlights in inclement weather.  This law is being enforced and fines have been issued. Pennsylvania also has the same law on the books.

 

3.      Reduce your speed after sunset.

 

4.      If the oncoming driver doesn't dim his lights, reduce your

         speed, focus on the right side of the roadway for pedestrians or objects.

 

5.     Use your parking lights for parking only.

 

 

The Anthony M. Brida, Inc. driver who blames hazardous weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice, fog, etc., for an accident, is in fact admitting personal failure to adjust his driving to these conditions.

 

The Anthony M. Brida, Inc. driver ensures that his vehicle is properly equipped for such hazards and knows when conditions are too extreme to risk moving the vehicle at all.  Adjusting to road conditions of ice, sleet or snow require:

 

  1. Getting the feel of the road when starting out at slow speeds by testing steering and braking control with the  road surface.

  2. Reducing speed to suit the snow or ice conditions.

  3. Using light brake applications, gentle pumping action.  Avoid harsh or erratic movement of the steering wheel.

  4. Keep your windows and windshield clean, inside and out.  Maintain your wiper blades, defrosters and lights.  Keep them in top condition to ensure good vision.

  5. Maintain adequate ventilation in the cab and ensure that the exhaust system is free of leaks. 

  6. Stay alert for hazards well ahead of your vehicles path, such as pedestrians, ice patches, bridge surfaces, blind intersections, snow plows, grades, curves, and detours.

         

FIVE ELEMENTS OF DEFENSIVE DRIVING

 

 

 

 

KNOWLEDGE

 

          A great deal of factual data is required in order to function in a defensive manner in today's traffic situations.  Several documents are available from a variety of sources, to assist you in gaining safe driving information and knowledge.

 

 

 

                                                             


ALERTNESS

 

          One of the best ways to defend yourself is to be constantly on the look out for the other driver.

 

 

 

FORESIGHT

 

          The ability to predict eventualities.  It may be long term such as checking your vehicle prior to a run.  It also may be short term, such as observing a pedestrian who may use a nearby crosswalk or children playing a game on the sidewalk right next to the street.

 

 

 

JUDGEMENT

 

          This implies decision making based on a thorough knowledge of the alternatives present, and past experience.

 

 

 

SKILL

 

          Skill is knowing how to do something, and doing it correctly every time!

 

                                                             

ACCIDENT PREVENTION FORMULA

 

 

          The National Safety Council has developed a formula, called the standard accident prevention formula, which reduces the chances of all accidents, including traffic collisions when it is followed. 

 

This formula consists of three (3) main steps:

 

 

 

RECOGNIZE THE HAZARD

 

          To recognize hazards successfully, you must avoid driving with a fixed stare on the vehicle ahead.  The Defensive Driver scans the road 12 to 15 seconds ahead when driving on local roadways, looking to the front and the sides of your vehicle.  This is called eye-lead time.  Twelve seconds eye-lead time is the approximate distance of a city block.  For highway driving a 20 to 30 seconds eye-lead time should be used.  A rule of thumb to use on highways, is to scan the next hill or curve.

 

          To recognize a hazard behind your vehicle, check your mirrors at least every five (5) seconds.  By constantly checking your mirrors, you'll avoid the dangerous habit of driving with a fixed stare.

 

          The two types of Fixed Stares:

 

          One occurs when something grips your attention.  Your job now is to dispose promptly of the eye-holding problem.  The second kind of fixed stare occurs when you look longer than two seconds at any one area (such as the yellow line on the highway).  This mental lapse must also be remedied, as soon as its presence becomes apparent.

 

 

UNDERSTAND THE DEFENSE

 

 

                Once you spot a hazard, you must understand what to do about it by anticipating what probably will happen and deciding what to do to avoid a collision.

 

          Three (3) options when faced with a Hazard:

 

                   1.       Brake (either stop or slow down)

                   2.       Steer (to your left or right)

                   3.       Tap the horn and/or flash your lights (communicate your presence)

 

 

 

ACT CORRECTLY IN TIME

 

 

                Once you recognize the developing hazard, and you understand the proper defense, you must act correctly in time.  You must make the transition from a mental process of anticipating another's actions and deciding what to do to avoid the impending collision, to physically and skillfully, executing the defensive maneuver you've chosen.

 

          Example: You're driving your truck down a two-lane road.  You observe construction barriers ahead on the shoulder of your lane.  You see a small child riding a bicycle ahead of you on your shoulder.  You have RECOGNIZED THE HAZARD, because you understand that the child is likely to swerve into your path to avoid the barriers.  Because you are scanning the road ahead properly, you also spot a vehicle coming toward you in the oncoming lane.  Now you must move quickly to UNDERSTAND THE DEFENSE.  You have three (3) options: braking, steering, tapping your horn.  If you steer to the left, you'll steer into the path of the oncoming vehicle, and probably have a head-on collision.  If you steer to the right onto the shoulder, you'll collide with the construction barriers or drive into a trench and roll over.  If you use your horn, you may startle the child on the bicycle into panicking and falling into your path.  As a Defensive Driver, you would brake your vehicle, slowing down and preparing to stop completely until it is safe to overtake and pass the cyclist.

 

          SPEED is the most important factor in avoiding a potential accident.  You will always have a better chance of slowing down or stopping to avoid a collision if your driving the "POSTED SPEED LIMIT".

 

KNOW YOUR VEHICLE'S HEIGHT

 

          The maximum permissible height of vehicles must be obeyed, unless otherwise expressed in a permit on all highways.  Every driver is required to know the exact height of his vehicle and load at all times.  Observed all overhead clearances that are posted in advance of underpass and tunnels.  In some areas, overhead check bars, chains, and warning devices are installed to assist in checking height clearances.  Before entering a limited clearance area, you should check the relevant regulations for each area you drive through.  You should also know the clearances for your route.

 

***ASK YOUR DISPATCHER BEFORE YOU GO***

 

          During winter months, snow build-up on road surfaces can reduce posted overhead clearance.  Special attention should be given for low overhead clearances which may not be posted such as: Fire escapes in alleyways, Boulevard tree limbs overhanging to roadway, Service station and store canopies, Low wire across residential driveways, intersections and roadways, warehouse doors.

 

          Before you enter a bridge or tunnel, check the posted load limit and overhead and side clearance.  When the posted clearance is less than 6 inches from the height of the truck, SLOW DOWN to avoid hitting a bump and bouncing into the top of the underpass or tunnel.  Check the elevation of the road before going under a low bridge or underpass.  REMEMBER, it is not uncommon, when traveling under an overpass, for the front wheels of a long rig to ride up on a higher elevation, while the rear wheels of the semi-trailer are also at a point of higher elevation.  This situation raises the middle of the rig and it could cause it to strike the overpass.

 

 

 

INTERSECTION COLLISIONS

 

          Knowledge of the right of way rules is essential for all drivers, but the Defensive Driver does not depend on the other drivers to always obey these rules.  Follow these common sense practices:

 

  1. Never enter a limited-view intersection at a speed at which you cannot stop safely in an emergency.

  2. Do not assume you have the right-of-way, even when it is reinforced by traffic signs or lights.  Look left and right before entering any intersection.  Look for and expect the other driver to run through the signs or lights without stopping.

  3. Look well ahead for green lights about to change, to avoid running through the lights late.  When getting the green light, check left - then right, look ahead for the "Late Runners" before proceeding.

  4. Position your vehicle into the proper lane well before a turn at an intersection.  Give signals well in advance, to show other drivers your intention to turn.  Slow gradually before entry, and turn only when it can be done safely.

  5. Do not depend on other drivers to signal or execute their turns correctly.

  6. Never pass at the approach to, or in, an intersection.

 

 

 

KNOW - SHOW - SLOW - GO

 

 

                KNOW that drivers sometimes do unexpected things at intersections.  Many turn abruptly, often from the wrong lane, signal improperly or not at all, some screech to a sudden stop.  Remember, BE ALERT!

 

          KNOW your turns in advance so that you can get into position early.  Look for map landmarks, next exit signs, house numbers.  Remember sudden last-minute swerves cause collisions.

 

          KNOW that traffic signs and signals can regulate traffic, but they can't control the other driver or prevent collisions.  Always be ready to yield when the other driver doesn't.

 

          KNOW the right-of-way rules, if two vehicles approach an intersection at the same time - No one has the right-of-way.  You should yield to the vehicle on your right.  Don't risk an accident - Nobody wins in a tie.

 

          KNOW your stopping distance.  This is critical at all intersections, give yourself plenty of room to slow down and stop.  Also be aware of road surface conditions snow, ice, leaves, water, sand, etc.

 

          SHOW the other drivers what you intend to do and where you intend to go at the intersection by using your signals.  Get into the proper lane early, turn your signals on at least a half block early.

 

          SLOW down gradually, don't stop suddenly and trap the drivers behind you.  Give yourself plenty of time to see any trouble ahead.  Remember - your seeing distance is just as important as your stopping distance.  NEVER speed up to beat a light.

 

 

 

 

DEFENSIVE DRIVING AT AN INTERSECTION

 

  1. As you approach the intersection, take your foot off the accelerator and put it over the brake pedal.  This will give you an extra split second of reaction time.

  2. Look to your left first, then your right.  The traffic from your left is closest to you and crosses your path first.  Proceed when clear, be cautious at all times, and be alert always.

 

REMEMBER THE FOLLOWING AT ALL INTERSECTIONS:

 

KNOW YOUR ROUTE AND PLAN AHEAD

SHOW YOUR INTENTION BY POSITION AND SIGNALS

SLOW DOWN AND EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

GO WITH CARE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TURNS

RIGHT RULES FOR TURNING

 

 

 

 

 

1.       Signal well in advance, get into the proper lane.  For left turns, get next to the center line.  For right turns, get as close as possible to the right.

                                   

2.       Always look at your mirrors before you change lanes or turn.  Check for traffic before, during and after your turns.

 

3.       Avoid situations where you might have to stop in mid-turn

 

4.       Always allow for off-tracking.  The rear wheels of your truck follow a shorter path than the front wheels while turning.

 

5.       Whenever possible, on the right turns, keep the right side of your truck or trailer approximately 4' from the right side in order to block drivers who attempt to pass on the right.

 

6.       To safely make the right turn, pull across the intersecting street and turn in toward the right to keep the right side blocked off from anyone passing on the right.

 

7.       Extreme care should be used whenever turning onto or from a congested street with parking on both sides.

 

8.       When turning at places other than intersections, (driveways, alleys, expressway ramps, service stations, etc.), remember the driver behind you may be caught off guard -- give plenty of warning, signal early, constantly check your mirrors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DRIVER FATIGUE

 

          The National Safety Council reports that in recent surveys "There is a definite relationship between the increased number of tail end accidents and fatigue."  As a professional driver, you are aware of the Department of Transportation requirements to keep DRIVER'S DAILY LOG.  This log records such things as:

 

          1.       24 hour grid.

          2.       Name of carrier and address.

          3.       Date.

          4.       Truck or tractor and trailer number.

          5.       Miles driven today

          6.       Total hours for each duty status.

          7.       Shipping document numbers.

          8.       Trip origin and destination.

 

          The sole purpose of keeping this log book up to date and current is SAFETY!

 

 

                Fatigue is "A biological reaction to prolonged or intense physical and/or mental activity which generally results in the weakening of the body process."  Remember the effects of fatigue on your driving performance is similar to that of alcohol and drugs.  Fatigue affects your whole body and a fatigued driver is more likely to:

 

          1.       Ignore or fail to recognize critical elements in the traffic environment.

          2.       Be affected by sun glare.

          3.       Misjudge the speed or distance of another vehicle.

          4.       Take a chance in passing or make an unsafe maneuver.

          5.       Become irritable, discourteous and overreact to minor irritations.

          6.       Act impulsively and experience brief periods of actual loss of consciousness.

 

          Most drivers may not realize that their driving has deteriorated from fatigue, the result being head-on crashes or sideswipe accidents with approaching vehicles or fixed objects such as bridges, trees, guardrails, etc.  After four (4) hours behind the wheel the average driver takes about 20 percent longer between steering wheel corrections.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

          Sleep loss produces some decrease in performance skills, hand steadiness, motor coordination and reaction time.  Compare the differences:

          

                                THE ALERT DRIVER            VS            THE SLEEPY DRIVER

IF YOU DRIVE HALF ASLEEP, WHO KNOWS WHERE YOU MAY WAKE UP!!

 

 

NINE (9) STANDARD RULES FOR FIGHTING OFF FATIGUE:

 

1. Be well rested when starting your trip.

2. Avoid heavy foods and ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.

3. Beware of PRESCRIBED DRUGS and their affect on your driving, such as,

    drowsiness, hallucinations, dizziness, etc.

4. Keep your vehicle well ventilated.

5. Keep your eyes moving, don't allow your eyes to become fixed on the road.

6. Wear good quality sunglasses when necessary.

7. Stop periodically for a rest, (at least every two (2) hours), and light exercise

    (walk around your truck, stretch your muscles).

8. Maintain a good physical condition.

9. There will be times when you're too drowsy to drive safely, the choice is

    very clear - pull over and stop.

 

 

                Always keep in mind, you spend a great amount of time on the highways, and as an Anthony M. Brida, Inc.'s Professional Driver, our policy is SAFETY FIRST, SAFETY ALWAYS!!

 

                                                   


TEN TIPS FOR THE PROFESSIONAL DRIVER

 

Here are some ideas for driving safely:

 

1.       Adjust the seat so that you're 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) from the lower

          rim of the steering wheel but able to press the pedals firmly.  Sit up straight.

 

2.       Fasten your lap belt snugly and don't forget your shoulder belt. In addition

           to its safety factor, a snug belt will help keep you sitting erect, with less

           back fatigue on long runs.

 

3.       See that rearview mirrors are correctly set for you.

 

4.       Use your eyes, keep them moving ahead, to the mirrors, to the sides and

           they'll give you advance warning of distant situations that quickly can

           become immediate emergencies.

 

5.       Always leave yourself an "out" space for possible evasive action - in

           adjoining lanes, front, rear or shoulder.

 

6.       Watch the car in front and also the brake lights of the car ahead of it

           for extra time in stopping.

 

7.       Learn to anticipate potential collisions.  A professional driver "expects"

           a vehicle following a school bus to overtake it.

 

8.       Use your horn whenever you're not sure the other fellow sees you. The

           idea that a good driver doesn't have to use the horn is a dangerous fallacy.

 

9.       At night, reduce about 10 mph (16 km/h) below your usual daytime speed.

 

10.     Realize, as pro drivers do, that you have passed the peak of your efficiency

          after five or six hours at the wheel.  Allow for it, as the pros do, by slowing

          down and taking it easy. Always keep in mind:

                                               

SAFETY FIRST & SAFETY ALWAYS.

 

 

 

Remember -- as a member of the Anthony M. Brida, Inc.

driving team, you've become a professional driver

for a professional company.