Most drivers have a false sense of confidence on the road. They assume that between years of driving experience and a history of avoiding crashes, they are unlikely to end up involved in a major motor vehicle collision. However, a driver is just one mistake or oversight away from a major crash at any given moment. All it takes is the wrong decision or encountering the wrong person for a driver to be at risk of a potentially life-altering collision.
It is typically beneficial for motorists to regularly refresh their knowledge of traffic safety. For example, they may want to review information about defensive driving tactics and to track changes to traffic statutes. They may also want to look into how those who drive for a living reduce their risk of a crash.
Package delivery companies send thousands of employees out on the roads every day, and they have much at risk if one of their employees causes a preventable collision. One of the crash prevention tactics used by package delivery companies can help others decrease their risk of a wreck in traffic as well.
Left turns are an unnecessary risk
For many years, major package carriers, including FedEx and UPS, have very carefully planned driver routes. The goal is to both optimize efficiency and minimize collision risk. One of the tactics these companies use to reduce the likelihood of a crash is to plan driver routes that do not involve left turns or that minimize left turns, especially at locations without traffic lights or turn lanes.
Left-hand turns are dangerous even at intersections with stop signs and stop lights. Researchers have found that more than three-fifths of crashes at intersections involve at least one vehicle turning left. Drivers can drastically reduce their chances of a significant collision by taking a different route that allows them to turn right at busy locations instead of turning left.
Allowing for a few extra minutes of drive time and taking a less-direct route could theoretically save someone’s life or help them avoid injuries that could affect them for years to come. Making small adjustments can have a major impact on an individual’s overall safety and their chances of causing a motor vehicle collision. Drivers who embrace traffic safety tactics and defensive driving techniques can keep themselves and their passengers safer.