Page 133 - Microsoft Word - NEW 2017 Standard Program.docx

More than 50% of traffic fatalities are caused by alcohol or drug impaired drivers.
When you observe someone operating a motor vehicle erratically weaving, stopping
far short of traffic signals, driving in the median, etc., take every precaution and
defensive action to put distance between you and that vehicle.

If the driver is behind you, slow down and move as far as possible to the right, even
to the shoulder if the road is safe, and let the driver pass. If the driver is in front and
you must pass, look for a parallel street.

Try to record the tag number of the vehicle being operated erratically. When you can
get to a phone or find a safe place to stop and use your cell phone, call the emergency
law enforcement number in your area, giving the vehicle’s description, tag number
and location. You may just be able to save a life or stop a potential collision.

4. VEHICLE: It is imperative that the Recovery Agent ensure his vehicle is in top
operating condition before putting it in service. The safety check procedure contained
in this section should be adhered to each day before beginning collateral recovery
efforts. Any maintenance or safety needs should be addressed immediately. The
Recovery Agent should always remember that if his equipment is not working, he
doesn’t work. Often you will have only seconds to “hook” a vehicle. That is not the
time to realize you forgot to install a new battery for your lift, or to remember that the
chain broke last night. It is true that if you take proper care of your equipment, it
will take care of you. Of equal importance, the Recovery Agent must be sure that
they are also ready to drive by being well rested, alert and focused.

5. ROAD: The defensive driver must be constantly aware of, and adjust to, varying road
conditions and changes, such as number of lanes, width and condition of surface,
curves, pot holes, hills, road shoulder, construction areas, railroad tracks, etc., and
whether there are adequate road signs. Speed should always be decreased when driving
on curved roads or hills and the driver should be aware of the shoulder to determine
if it is safe to drive on in an emergency. Always pay particular attention when
approaching or driving through construction areas, especially for workers. This should
be a time of extreme caution and slow speeds.

6. DRIVER: Statistics show that 60% to 80% of all traffic crashes are caused by
DRIVER ERROR. Statistics compiled within the collateral recovery industry show
that 60% of claims involve driver error violations such as:

qq following too closely
qq excessive speed
qq improper lane changes
qq failure to obey traffic signals, etc..
qq improper towing