With the vaccines now in full swing, we are seeing the benefits and states and provinces are “opening” and lifting restrictions that have been in place with COVID-19.  We already have evidence that the driving habits of the general population tend to result in speeding and reckless driving when this occurs.  Your drivers for the last year have been operating with a dramatic reduction in the volume of vehicles that they have encountered while driving their trucks daily.  Now is the time to remind your drivers of this change and that they should be operating with a high level of defensive driving.  Below are the Smith5Keys to defensive driving that the Smith System uses to train drivers.

1. Aim high in steering: look 15 seconds into your future (do not just look at the vehicle in front of you).
2. Get the big picture: look for hazards (other motorists, pedestrians, vehicle doors opening).
3. Keep your eyes moving: do not stare (use your peripheral vision and stop the fixed habit stare).
4. Leave yourself an out: monitor the space cushion around you and your bike.
5. Make sure they see you: use your signals (directionals, 4-way flashers, head lights, brake lights, horn, hand signals) and make eye contact.

The five characteristics of defensive driving are:
Knowledge- Good defensive drivers will have knowledge of the traffic laws and the basics about their motorcycles, such as how the brake system operates and how to read gauges and lights on the dash.
Alertness- Good defensive drivers are alert to what is going on around them. They are well rested and would never take any drugs or alcohol that could affect their concentration before riding a motorcycle.
Anticipation- Defensive drivers anticipate what may or may not happen, and they take action to avoid many problems. They anticipate potential hazards from other motorists, pedestrians, weather and equipment and take steps to minimize the risk.
Judgment- Good defensive drivers do not make risky maneuvers like trying to beat red lights. They don’t try to pass unless it’s safe and they look for alternatives to any traffic situation.
Skill- Good defensive drivers have the technical skills to operate the motorcycle safely through traffic without endangering anyone else on the road. They can handle the motorcycle even in hazardous conditions (Smith System of Defensive Driving).