Page 8 - Sep-Oct 2023_Neat

safety & education

ADS,
AMONG F
SUN
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ICK RO
TIGUE,
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FATIGUE, SLICK ROADS, SUN GLARE AMONG FALL ROAD HAZARDS
AD HAZARDS
he start of school is here, and so are the
seasonal hazards that increase the risk of
truck crashes. Dispatchers, driver managers,
Tand safety personnel should be communicat-
ing these hazards to drivers regularly during the fall
months. Please take time to review the list of hazards
below, and complete the “Call to Action” items to help
reduce the risk of crashes.
BACK TO SCHOOL
Remind drivers to expect traffic congestion
along bus routes, reduced speed limits in school
zones, and the increased risk of pedestrians on or near SLIPPERY ROAD CONDITIONS
the roadway. Drivers should be extra vigilant in school
zones and bus pickup/drop off areas. Remind them to When moisture from rain and dew mixes with
slow down and be prepared to stop suddenly. oils and dust on the road, the surface becomes slip-
pery and decreases traction. Likewise, leaves falling on
FATIGUE the road, especially if wet, create adverse road condi-
Shorter days and the end of daylight savings tions. Remind drivers to observe the proper speed for
time can disrupt a driver’s circadian rhythm. Most conditions.
crashes occur in the early morning hours and right FIRST FREEZE
after lunch. Remind drivers to get plenty of rest, avoid
heavy meals loaded with carbohydrates, and limit Colder temperatures bring frost and ice, even
caffeinated and sugary drinks, such as coffee and soda. black ice. Remind drivers to be cautious when driving
on bridges and overpasses because they will freeze be-
SUN GLARE fore the roadway freezes. Also, drivers should budget
During sunrise and sunset, sun glare can make enough time for a thorough pre-trip inspection and
it difficult to see traffic lights or the vehicle in front. ensure the windows and mirrors are defrosted and
Remind drivers to slow down, maintain proper fol- clean before starting the trip.
lowing distance, and wear sunglasses to reduce glare. CALL TO ACTION
If possible, encourage drivers not to drive when sun
glare is at its worst. • Discuss fall driving hazards with drivers daily.
• Encourage drivers to schedule non-driving time
ROAD OBSTACLES during periods of increased sun glare.
This time of year brings unique road obstacles, • Educate drivers on the dangers of distracted driv-
including slow-moving and less-conspicuous vehicles, ing.
such as farm equipment on rural roads. Drivers of farm
equipment may drive on both the road and shoulder, Note: These lists are not intended to be all-inclusive.■
and can make quick turns or adjustments for road Source: The information in this article is provided as a
signs, mailboxes, etc. Remind drivers to be patient courtesy of Great West Casualty Company and is part
around farm vehicles and not to pass unless it is safe of the Value-Driven® Company program. Value-Driv-
and legal to do so. Likewise, remind drivers to be on en Company was created to help educate and inform
the lookout for animals. If an animal crosses in front of insureds so they can make better decisions, build a
the truck, drivers should slow down and stay in their culture that values safety, and manage risk more effec-
lane, even if it means hitting the animal to maintain tively. To view this article, click here.
control of the truck.

8 Alabama Propane Gas Association | September / October 2023