Applying the defensive driving formula
The defensive driving formula
The ability to recognize potential hazards plus the decision to act on the defensive equals safety.
Driver's Condition When you drive a vehicle, you may be a hazard to yourself, the vehicle or your passengers if you lack the necessary knowledge, skills, health and/or attitude to be a safe driver.
Driver's knowledge A driver who does not have the following knowledge must be considered a hazard: • state highway laws • local rules and regulations • maintenance procedures • incident and emergency procedures • defensive driving • first aid
Driver's skill The driver must be able to: • correctly and safely perform all driving manoeuvres • operate all equipment also including emergency equipment.
Driver's health
A good defensive driver will not drive with any of the following health problems: • fatigue • sickness • defective eyesight • defective hearing • emotional instability
Driver's attitude The defensive driver must constantly check to make sure he/she is: • alert • thinking positively • concentrating on the job at hand • is in control of his/her emotions.
If you’ve had an argument, before you start driving, you may not be in control of your temper. Vehicle Conditions The mechanical condition of your vehicle is a factor that can become a hazard if not monitored. A simple pre-trip to identify any potential mechanical faults is the first step in monitoring faults. Defects or potential defects should be repaired or at least watched and compensated for, if applicable. The following are pre-trip inspection items:
• TIRES & WHEELS • BATTERY • HEADLIGHTS • HEATER • TURN SIGNALS • WINDOWS • BELTS • HORN • MIRRORS • CROSSING GATE, IF EQUIPPED • FLASHERS • STOP ARM and 8-WAY LOADING LIGHTS • SEATS • COOLANT • BRAKES • WINDSHIELD • BRAKE LIGHTS • DOORS • OIL • EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT • ENGINE • TRANSMISSION
