Operation Safe Driver Week is almost here, and it’s coming in “fast”. See the emphasis on “fast”? The focus of this year’s Operation Safe Driver Week is speeding and risky driving behaviors. While the theme for this year’s event is the same as last years, you must realize it’s a recurring problem.
This campaign serves as a safe-driving outreach initiative and awareness program aimed at improving the driving behavior of commercial motor vehicles. This year’s event takes place from July 10th through the 16th. Mark your calendars!
The Importance of Operation Safe Driver Week
Last year’s annual traffic crash report released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) shocked the nation. Although the total miles driven dropped by 11 percent due to the pandemic, the number of fatalities due to reckless driving increased by 17 percent.
This indicates that even though people were traveling less, risky driving behaviors have become a national crisis that requires immediate attention on all fronts.
2022 Campaign Focus
The deadly driving habit, i.e., speeding, isn’t going away on its own, and we can see that from analyzing the annual crash report released by the NHTSA. Therefore, this year’s campaign is focusing on risky driving behaviors and speeding throughout the US, Mexico, and Canada.
The following conduct is what law enforcement agencies in North America will be looking out for:
- Failure to use a seatbelt
- Distracted driving
- Evidence of driving under the influence
- Improper lane changes
- Following too closely
- Reckless driving
What Motor Carriers Can Do
Operation Safe Driver Week is a preemptive government initiative to keep passenger vehicles, commercial motor vehicles, and others safe on the road. Unfortunately, reckless driving has become all too common in today’s day in age.
Moreover, the annual crash report highlights that distracted driving and drowsy driving is the leading cause of roadway crashes and fatalities. Therefore, this initiative is a way for motor carriers to educate their drivers and ensure compliance throughout their organization.
Motor carriers can do the following to prepare their drivers for Operation Safe Driver Week:
- Don’t use your cellphone while driving
- Avoid driving while impaired
- Obey the posted speed limit
- Monitor your following distance
- Wear your seatbelt
- Follow traffic laws
- Always practice safe driving habits
- Take breaks and be well-rested
As a motor carrier, you’re responsible for your organization’s culture. Therefore, you need to stress the importance of safety and implement helpful training programs.
Conclusion
Throughout Operation Safe Driver Week, law enforcement agencies and transportation safety officials will be on the lookout for those speeding on roadways. They will identify unsafe drivers and issue citations or warnings based on the severity of the offense.
Source
https://www.foleyservices.com/news/safe-driver-week-is-coming-fast-its-time-to-slow-down/