dillon logistics summer of safety #3

As we wrap up our Summer Of Safety series, we wanted to touch on a topic that is extremely pertinent for the coming weeks. With school back in session, it is vital that truckers take extra precaution behind the wheel. Although many of these tips are common sense, please take our pledge to be serious about safety so we can contribute to leaving the roads and school zones accident free.

“Last year, 475,000 school buses took to the roads. ‘That is another half million commercial vehicles added to our roads, which we all know are already congested,’ said Herbert Mayo, vice president of risk control for Lockton Companies,” in an article by Penske.

It’s inevitable. During this time of the year, roads are going to be busier, which means as a trucker, your normal route is going to be more congested. Secondary roads and metropolitan areas will be more crowded as moms and kids drive to school, the Penske article warned. Try to stick to highways, and if you must to take a more urban course, slow down and be more aware.

According to an article by the Traffic Safety Store, with the growth in mobile and media use, pedestrians today are more likely than not to pay less attention. Keep in mind that you may need to be their eyes when they fail to be aware. Following the speed limit signs, especially in school zones, will give you buffer if a student or pedestrian makes an unexpected move into the street.

“While allowed speed limits in school zones vary from state to state, the typical range goes around 15-25 mph,” the Traffic Safety Store article said.

When it comes to sharing the road with students, bicyclists and other pedestrians during heavier months of traffic, the Nationals Safety Council (NSC) offers some good reminders.

• Never block a crosswalk
• Stop and yield to blinking crosswalk signs (or ones that enforce 10-15 mph speeds)
• Never pass a bus if it is loading or unloading students
• Remember that bikers follow the same rules as cars.
• Check your mirror before opening your door, especially if you are parked on the side of the road or in a high-traffic area.

Ultimately, the best way to stay safe during the height of the school season is to heed traffic signs and speeds. It’s always better to err on the slow side. Thank you, Dillon Logistics team, for contributing to our coveted level of safety. We couldn’t do it without you and your seriousness out on the road