Page 132 - CARS Standard Program

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