Did you know that over 1/3 of Risk Fund auto claims are avoidable? From FY20 – FY25, 40% of all Risk Fund auto claims were from drivers hitting a stationary object or parked vehicle, costing over $12,700,000! What if those objects had been a child, a coworker, or another person? Also, can you imagine how else that money could have been used? All of these are avoidable accidents. Help reduce these types of accidents by using the tips below:
Tips:
- Slow down & remove distractions – These collisions typically happened because the driver was in a hurry or distracted.
- Plan your trip – Think about your route before you leave: where are you going? How long will it take? Is there a way to avoid hazards like traffic, left turns, overpasses, etc.? Plan for any stops, weather, and potential traffic. If using a mobile device for navigation, enter all addresses into the device so they are ready to go!
- Check your surroundings & get to know the vehicle – Walk around the vehicle before entering. Look for any objects that you could hit while driving away like close cars, poles, signs, bollards, curbs, and people. Adjust your side and rear view mirrors and become familiar with the vehicle’s controls (HVAC, gear selector, cruise control, brake/parking brake, windshield wipers, defroster, radio, etc.) before driving. Clear the vehicle and windows of debris, ice, fog, or snow.
- Look at three main levels where objects can exist – 1) Ground level: check for items just below the driver’s view such as: small children, parking bollards, fire hydrants, curbs, guardrails, shoulder banks, rocks, potholes, etc.; 2) Eye level: watch for items visible from the driver’s seat that may have protruding parts not visible including signs, parked vehicles, building protrusions, gates, sally ports, dumpsters, etc.; 3) Overhead level: be aware of your vehicle’s height, particularly when driving under building overhangs/drive-thru’s, power lines, tree branches, awnings and overpasses. When in doubt about visibility or clearance, remember the acronym GOAL – Get Out And Look!
- Secure your cargo and put on your seatbelt – Put loose items securely away. Put mobile devices used for navigation in a mount or stable location. Only use hands-free technology, if you have to use it at all.
- Eliminate any distractions – Do not pick up your phone to text, talk, or search for something while driving. The call or text can wait!
- Avoid Fatigue – Do not drive drowsy. If you need a break, find a safe place to park and rest for 20 minutes. A brief rest can make all the difference between life and death!
Click the button below to learn more and view the Stationary Object Accident Training module for your agency.