Greetings, Fleet Managers and Drivers,
As we navigate the onset of the busy back-to-school season, the roads become increasingly bustling—with school buses, children crossing the streets, and parents rushing to drop off their kids. During this time of year, vigilance isn’t just a recommendation; it’s a necessity. With the NHTSA’s annual impaired driving campaign (August 14 – September 2) coinciding with back-to-school season, now is the perfect moment to reinforce our commitment to back-to-school driving safety and the principles of SAFER Fleet driving.
Why is this important?
The overlap between the back-to-school season and the NHTSA campaign is no coincidence—it’s a time when roads are busier, and the risks are higher. With the return of school buses, children crossing streets, and increased traffic, the need for vigilance is paramount. In 2022, 32% of all traffic fatalities involved an alcohol-impaired driver, underscoring the importance of staying alert. This period is especially critical as drivers, whether managing fleets or driving families, must navigate not only the dangers of impaired driving but also the added complexities of school zones and pedestrian traffic. The combination of increased road activity and the risks associated with impaired driving during Labor Day makes this a crucial time for heightened awareness and safety.
Staying Safe During School Season
Just as students are getting back into the swing of things and sharpening their pencils, fleet drivers must also sharpen their focus. The return of school buses and the increase in pedestrian activity mean more distractions, more stops, and more opportunities for incidents if we’re not fully attentive when driving.
Connecting Back-to-School Driving Safety with Impaired Driving Prevention
The NHTSA campaign’s messages—Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, If You Feel Different, You Drive Different—serve as critical reminders that impaired driving comes in many forms. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, distraction, or drowsiness, these factors all impair your ability to drive safely. During the back-to-school season, the importance of staying vigilant takes on an added significance. As fleet drivers, your attention to safety helps protect not only your passengers and cargo but also the most vulnerable road users: children.
Your Fleet Driver Back-to-School Driving Safety Checklist
- Stay Clear, Stay Calm, Stay Cautious: Ensure that you’re fully alert and unimpaired, especially when driving through school zones. Impairment isn’t just about alcohol or drugs—distracted driving and driving while drowsy are equally dangerous. The slightest lapse in judgment, whether from glancing at your phone or nodding off for just a moment, can have serious consequences. Stay focused, stay awake, and keep your mind on the road ahead.
- Know the Zones: When driving a fleet vehicle, it’s essential to be fully aware of school zone locations along your route. These areas require your utmost attention and adherence to safety protocols. Strictly follow speed limits and school bus signals, as these rules are in place to protect the most vulnerable road users—children. Remember, SAFER driving isn’t just a guideline; it’s a commitment to being Safer, Aware, Focused, Educated, and Responsible every time you get behind the wheel. By knowing the zones and respecting the rules, you embody the principles of SAFER driving, ensuring that every journey is a safe one for everyone on the road.
- Anticipate the Unexpected: When driving through school and bus zones, it’s crucial to expect the unexpected. Children often act impulsively, darting into the street or crossing without warning. As a fleet driver, your ability to react quickly is paramount. Stay vigilant, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and be ready to brake at a moment’s notice. Practicing proactive driving—anticipating potential hazards before they happen—is a key component of responsible fleet driving and aligns with the principles of SAFER driving. Your preparedness ensures that you can respond swiftly to any surprises, keeping both your vehicle and those around you safe.
- Set the Standard: As a fleet driver, you’re not just another vehicle on the road; you’re a beacon of professionalism and safety. It’s your responsibility to exemplify the highest standards of driving, particularly when it comes to staying sober and fully focused. Every decision you make behind the wheel sets the tone for others, whether it’s maintaining consistent speed, using signals appropriately, or staying alert to your surroundings. By embodying the core principles of SAFER driving—being constantly aware, educated, and responsible—you influence not just your fleet, but everyone you share the road with. Your commitment to safety has a ripple effect, encouraging others to follow suit.
How NTSI Fleet Training Can Help
At NTSI, we offer specialized fleet driver training programs that equip your drivers with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe during this critical time of year. Our SAFER Driver Training is designed to address the unique challenges of driving in school zones, navigating high-pedestrian areas, and preventing impaired driving—all essential components during the back-to-school season and beyond.
For fleet managers looking to go a step further, our Defensive Driving Course focuses on proactive driving strategies that help drivers anticipate and avoid potential hazards, including those that can be more prevalent during the school year.
Lastly, our Comprehensive Fleet Safety Program can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your fleet, ensuring that your drivers are fully prepared to handle the increased demands of the season while maintaining the highest standards of safety.
This back-to-school season, let’s take extra care to ensure that our roads are safe for everyone. By staying vigilant and avoiding any form of impairment, we can make sure that every child, every pedestrian, and every driver gets home safely. Remember, the lessons we teach through our driving habits are just as important as the ones learned in the classroom.
Stay sharp, stay sober, and let’s make this school season a safe one for all.
For more information on how our training programs can help you and your fleet, visit NTSI Fleet Training.
Missed today’s SAFER School Season: Fleet Drivers, Crisscrossing Kids, and School Buses – Oh My! Webinar? No worries—we’ve got you covered. Just reach out by email, phone, or even carrier pigeon, and we’ll send the recording your way. It’s packed with tips to boost driver safety, protect your bottom line, and keep kids safe. Keep your commitment to SAFER driving—get in touch today!
Stay safe and drive smart!
