Safety of Motor Vehicle
Safety of Motor Vehicle
Safety of Motor Vehicle
OF
MOTOR VEHICLES
Tires
-Walk around the vehicle and towed equipment and inspect
the tires. Check tire pressure and look for signs of damage or
excessive wear. Make sure lug bolts are tight.
Safety Belts
-Make sure all safety belts are functioning, and everyone is
properly restrained.
Controls
-Check the horn to make sure it works. Test the lights, turn
signals and windshield wipers before you begin.
Brakes
-Make sure your brakes are working properly. Test according to
your vehicle’s operator’s manual.
Windshields and Mirrors
-Make sure the windshields and mirrors are clean.
Adjust mirrors so you can see properly.
Driver’s License
- You must have a valid driver’s license in your possession while
operating a motor vehicle.
Pre-Start Checklist
o Fuel and Fluid Levels
o Tires
o Safety Belts
o Controls
o Brakes
o Windshields and Mirrors
o Driver’s License
Safe Starting
1. Walk around the vehicle to make sure no people or
obstacles are in your path.
4. Adjust the seat, side and rear view mirrors. Adjust the
seat so your feet reach the pedals, and your hands reach the
steering wheel and controls. Adjust the seat so you have a
clear line of sight through windows and mirrors as well.
3. Turn the engine off and remove the key from the ignition.
5. Lock all doors and roll up windows before leaving the vehicle
unattended.
Protect Yourself While Driving
Driver Distraction
-When you are behind the wheel, your job as a driver requires
full attention. Distractions slow your ability to respond
tochanging conditions. Distractions can be physical, mental, or
both.
Rain
• Slow down and allow extra space between you and the vehicle in
front of you when driving on wet pavement.
• Use the windshield wipers.
• Use headlights on low beam to make your vehicle visible to other drivers and to help you see the road
if it is dark. Low beams cause less reflection during rain.
• Do not drive in standing or flowing water. Your vehicle could be swept away by the water or the
engine could stall, leaving you stranded.
Snow/Ice
• Scrape snow and ice from windshield for better visibility.
• Drive slower and increase following distance. Even snow tires slide on ice or packed snow.
• Watch for slick spots on bridges and overpasses.
Fog
• Turn headlights on low beam and use fog lamps, if available.
• Fog decreases your visibility. Drive slower and increase following distance.
Wind
• Increase your following distance so you have time to react to events around you, such as objects
blowing across the road or the vehicle in front of you slowing or stopping suddenly.
• Keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel, so you maintain control of the vehicle.
• Be cautious when pulling a trailer in the wind. The wind will push and tug at the trailer making driving
difficult .
Changing Lanes Safely
1. Always signal when making a lane change
2. Before changing lanes, check the mirrors and look for vehicles
3. Obey all posted traffic signs, signals and pavement markings
Driver/Operator Impairment
Never drive while fatigued or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
1. Alcohol and drugs affect your ability to think clearly and react
quickly. Prescription and nonprescription drugs may affect your
driving. Ask a pharmacist or doctor if your medicine will affect
your ability to drive and operate machinery.
2. Fatigue affects your safety and can put others in danger. Make
sure you get adequate rest before work.
3. Additional Precautions
Do not operate machinery if you are tired or have taken drugs
or alcohol. If you are on medication, discuss with your doctor
or pharmacist if you are able to safely operate vehicles and
machinery.