Learn why everyday safe driving is good for your trade contracting business.

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Read about everyday safe driving tips and reminders for trade contractors.

Math is everywhere in the daily work of trade contractors. Job estimates and on-the-job tasks require routine measuring of everything from costs and materials to angles and weight-bearing requirements. Trade contractors are also on the road regularly, hauling equipment and material, frequently in larger vehicles, all key factors in driving outcomes. The math speaks for itself.

Safe driving practices = Lives saved + money saved + time saved

EVERYDAY SAFE DRIVING TIPS AND REMINDERS FOR TRADE CONTRACTORS:

  • Buckle up.
  • Look before you back up.
  • Plan and plot your destination before getting behind the wheel.
    If driver attention is concentrated on talking GPS instructions, particularly on busy or unfamiliar streets, alertness is reduced.
  • Expect more drivers on roadways due to the “return to normal” following COVID-19. As traffic volume increases, so does the risk of auto accidents.
  • Distracted driving leads to auto accidents. Pull off the road and park safely before texting, eating, or drinking. It only takes a few seconds for an experienced driver to become a driver with a really bad experience.
  • Pay attention to the speed limit. There’s no reward in shaving travel time if you crash the vehicle. Auto accidents always involve lost time and lost money. Serious accidents result in major injury or loss of life.
  • Follow safety instructions in work zones and orange barrel zones. Slow down, allow extra space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead, be prepared to stop.
  • Check your mirrors often. Monitor your blind spots.
  • Maintain your vehicle and tires. Focus on preventive maintenance, rather than reactive maintenance.
  • Secure equipment and material being hauled. Ensure proper weight distribution of the vehicle. For protruding items, such as ladders, lumber, drywall sheets, rebar, etc., fasten approved warning flags.
  • Be aware of road and weather conditions. Allow extra travel time for poor conditions. Rain, snow, and ice are familiar in Ohio. Blinding sunlight and glare are also hazards because they block or detract vision from the road. Keep sunglass protection in your vehicle.
  • Signal in plenty of time to give other drivers notice of your intent.
  • Understand reaction time and space. Larger vehicles, inclusive of pickup trucks, need more time and space to react.
  • Use flashers and cones if you must pull off the road.
  • Know your vehicle. Curves, tight turns, and short ramps require extra caution for vehicles with higher centers of gravity.

Add up the math of safe driving, and the result is good for you and your trade contracting business. Keep in mind that auto insurance rates in general are based on overall loss experience. The more losses insurance companies pay out, the more rates increase. Respects individual drivers and insureds, the number of speeding tickets and at-fault auto accidents can place you on a watchlist and may result in a notable rate increase or cancellation of your auto insurance.

Richey-Barrett Insurance is your Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agent for Trade Contractor Insurance. Call us today to discuss your business and auto insurance concerns.

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