Skip to main content

Driver Safety Tips to Keep You Secure

COVID restrictions are loosening across the nation and more people are out and about again.  As places open up, driver safety becomes a growing concern as the road rage, angry shoppers, and upset customers are coming back in higher volumes. This brings up the question: what are some best practices on how you can keep yourself safe in different scenarios? Below is a breakdown of driver safety tips on how to stay safe from the beginning of a delivery to the very end.

On the Road

  1. Driving – First, always make sure your driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of auto insurance is handy. If you’re pulled over or in an auto collision, you’ll need to provide these. Always use your turn signal and abide by the posted speed limits!
  2. Delivering – Whether you’re picking up items for delivery or dropping them off with your customer, always park in a safe well-lit and designated area. Refrain from driving, stopping or parking in bus lanes, bike lanes, taxi zones, crosswalks or any areas that appear to be unsafe for you, your vehicle or the general public. Always keep an eye out for pedestrians, cyclists or motorists on scooters.
  3. Parking – If parking for long periods of time, first be aware of your surroundings and if possible, back your vehicle against a wall or other structure to prevent cargo doors from being opened.  It is always recommended when possible, to park overnight in secure designated lots.
  4. Weather – Poor weather and road conditions can present danger! Reduce your speed in these conditions and be extra aware of your surroundings.
  5. Without saying – be sure to follow all local driving laws. Obey traffic signs. Slowdown in construction areas. Follow the instructions of traffic controllers when present.

In the Car

  1. In your car – If any of your dashboard safety notifications are on, such as your brake (ABS) light, check engine light or airbag light – please refrain from driving and have your vehicle repaired by a mechanic. Please make sure your headlights, brake lights, wipers and seatbelts are functioning properly. Check your tires for wear and tear on the tread regularly.
  2. Alertness – The safest way to drive is to ensure that you’re entirely focused on the road. Your eyes are up, your ears are open, and your mind is clear. Remember to keep both hands on the steering wheel.
  3. Phone usage – Avoid texting while driving at all costs. Since you’re receiving jobs via an app, you’ll likely be using a GPS app to get you to your destination. Make sure you mount your phone at eye level! Avoid holding your phone in your hand while driving. For GPS functions, it is highly recommended you use voice activated navigation.
  4. Long distance – For longer transports it is recommended to check and fill the fuel tank prior to picking up a shipment, eliminating stops along the route reduces risks and is required by many shippers.
  5. GPS services – Through DDI you can partner with 7Psolutions to provide real-time GPS solutions for your vehicle. These include GPS services to enhance automated communications to customers, documented waiting time, fleet management, cargo security and temperature monitoring for refrigerated vehicles or totes.

The Clients Place of Business (I.e. Restaurants, Grocery Stores, Retail Shops, Auto part stores, etc.)

  1. Picking up an order – Always be aware of your surroundings in case of an emergency, recognize your closest exits, always have a way out or an action plan should you need it.
  2. Golden rule – Be polite and treat the clients as you’d want to be treated. You get more bees with honey than with vinegar.
  3. Parking – Pay attention to parking signs. Nowadays there are designated parking spots for delivery personnel or pick up only parking spots.  Don’t take the front spot from a customer. We understand timing is an issue here but parking a few spots back can save you arguments or complaints if you get in the way of a customer.
  4. Health – Carry extra masks, hand sanitizer and gloves in case you need them in specific places of business.
  5. Vehicle – Always turn off the engine and lock your car, even if it’s a quick in and out.

At Your Customers Location

  1. Dropping off an order – Wear recognizable clothing or have signage on your car so the customer can identify who is approaching their place or residence.
  2. Assess the scene – look for “beware” of dog signage or any extra notes that may have been left in the app at the time the order was placed.
  3. Parking – Try not to park in driveways or block alleyways. Look for designated street parking.
  4. Vehicle – again, always turn off the engine and lock your car.
  5. Health – protect yourself with masks and gloves as you see fit when dropping off.
  6. Belongings – never carry a lot of cash on you and leave anything worth value out of sight in your car. When in doubt, carry mace.
  7. GPS services – Through DDI you can partner with 7Psolutions Driver Protection Program using GPS and a variety of SOS beacons; it will generate an immediate alarm when law enforcement services are required. Through the push of a button an immediate alarm is sent to 911 dispatchers who use your real-time GPS location and driver information to dispatch law enforcement.

Everyone and every delivery is different. Always stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Should you encounter any issues while on a delivery, remember to try and stay calm and reach out to your dispatcher for assistance.

Delivery Drivers, Inc. (DDI) works closely with our client and driver-partners to ensure any issues on a delivery such as an accident are handled the right way. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to us at sales@ddiwork.com or if you are interested in becoming a driver-partner, click here to find opportunities in your area.

Read this blog in Spanish below.