Do your employees have a good sense of direction? Just because they know where they are going on a particular route doesn’t mean they will get there on time. What if there is a detour or a traffic jam? Providing your drivers with GPS systems can help them remain productive and on time with deliveries. However, making sure they operate them safely can help avoid accidents.
The goal of each transport is for the driver and cargo to make it to the customer safely. Using a GPS for help when navigating the road should act as a supplement, not the primary means of reaching the destination. If one becomes distracted by the GPS voice or pictures, this could result in a serious collision. It is important to follow basic directions so you don’t get lost. Here are some tips on how to stay safe with your GPS:
- Before leaving, you should know where you are going. Although the GPS will recalculate the route automatically if you get lost, you may experience minimal stress and distractions if you have an idea of where you are.
- Never program a GPS while moving. Enter the destination before departing.
- Handling and reading maps while driving is very dangerous. You are better off with a GPS, but having a map in case of an emergency can be helpful, as long as you read it when you are parked.
- Using a GPS system can improve safety when night driving. It can help give you better road awareness, especially during bad weather.
- Some GPS’ include safety features, such as “help” buttons to reach the police, hospital, auto shop, and more.
- Learn to rely on the voice directions instead of always needing to look at the screen.
- Mount the GPS in a place that is not distracting or doesn’t obscure your vision.
At Jeffers Insurance, we hope these tips help your drivers avoid accidents by knowing exactly where they are going. If a collision were to occur due to GPS or direction distractions, physical damage losses could occur. You don’t want financial hardship like this, do you? To prevent such circumstances, you need physical damage coverage. We have a long track record of exceptional service to the trucking industry so we can help support your specific needs today.
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