It was the regular monthly safety meeting, and the fleet manager asked the assembled truck drivers, “Who are you driving for?” As he went around the room driver by driver, their responses were, ”Jones Trucking Company,” “You, sir,” “My wife and kids,” and “The VISA credit card folks”–that one got a laugh of recognition.
The fleet manager turned on the big screen TV in the room, knowing that the morning traffic report would be on the local news station. Images of bumper-to-bumper traffic filled the screen. “Everyone,” the fleet manager said, pointing at the TV. “You are driving for everyone out there.”
See also: Fleets Explained: Emissions regulations
The truck drivers knew, of course, to watch out for the other guy. But all those “other guys” at once? Yes, said the fleet manager. And here is how you already do it:
- You are pros. You are professionally trained, licensed, and experienced–you know how to safely drive on crowded roads.
- You see what’s down the road. Many folks on the road just see the car ahead and the one behind. You sit up higher and view the big picture. You use your flashers, brakes, and turn signals to alert the other guys to trouble ahead.
- You expect the unexpected. For many, the commute is a mindless routine. But you have the miles under your belt to know that a blown tire or a swerving drunk can suddenly appear. You are ready to respond.
- You are undistracted. And that’s not just because company policy says put those cell phones away. It’s also because you do a pre-trip inspection and know your truck is ready. It’s because you adjust your mirrors and review your route before you even turn the key, so only driving is on your mind.
- You read your surroundings. That forested area at the edge of town? You’ve seen the deer at the roadside, just like farm tractors have appeared where the trees give way to plowed land. And not far ahead are another set of city lights, where you anticipate more commuters, pedestrians wearing earbuds, and motorists looking for a parking space. You are prepared.
One truck driver raised his hand and asked, "If we already do all these things, why do we have safety meetings?" The fleet manager responded that next month we may be talking about a change in federal regulations or a new piece of technology added to our trucks… all important stuff that, hopefully, will support improved safety. But we can never lose sight of the big picture: You drive for everyone on the road. It is your skill, knowledge, and awareness that saves lives.
