#Workplace Safety
By Team Seaglass
In the hustle and bustle of daily commutes, navigating through traffic can often feel like a distressing task. While changing lanes may seem like a routine task that requires minimal effort, it can quickly become a high-stakes gamble if not approached with care. Completing lane changes safely requires more than just flicking on your turn signal and shifting to a different lane. It demands careful observation, strategic planning, and precise execution to ensure that every maneuver is completed with the utmost caution and consideration for other motorists.
The Importance of Safe Lane Changes
Safe lane changes are critical for maintaining order and reducing the risk of accidents on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), lane-changing accidents are among the leading causes of crashes on highways and multi-lane roads. The wrong move can be the difference between a smooth journey and a potential disaster, which can lead to costly consequences as well. In fact, recent statistics estimate that 33% of all road crashes result from unsafe lane changes. And, when it comes to these lane-changing crashes, who do you think is likely to be “at-fault”? Well, in most cases, the driver who is already established in a lane has the right of way, and the driver completing the lane change has the responsibility for making sure it is safe to make the lane change. So, as stated before, it takes careful observation, strategic planning, and precise execution to ensure that your lane change is completed safely.
Essential Tips for Safe Lane Changes
So, how can you navigate the lanes of the highway safely and effectively? Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Plan Your Lane Changes in Advance– Before changing lanes, assess the traffic conditions. Look for gaps in traffic that will provide a safe opportunity to change lanes without disrupting the flow of traffic.
- Signal Your Intentions– Always use your turn signals to indicate your intention to change lanes. Signaling gives other drivers advance notice of your planned maneuver, allowing them to adjust their speed and position accordingly.
- Check Your Mirrors– Your mirrors are essential tools for monitoring the traffic around you. Be sure that your mirrors are adjusted to accommodate optimum visibility.
– Adjust the Rearview Mirror– Sit in the drivers seat, in your usual driving position. Adjust the rearview mirror so that you have a clear view directly out of the rear window. You should be able to see the entire rear window without having to move your head too much.
– Adjust Driver’s Side Mirror– While sitting in the driver seat, lean toward the driver’s window on your left. From this position, adjust the driver side mirror until you can just barely see the rear portion of your car. In general, you should see ¼ car and ¾ road in your mirror).
– Adjust Passenger’s Side Mirror– Lean to the right, towards the center console, until your head is in line with the middle of the vehicle. From this position, adjust the side mirror until you can see the rear edge of your car’s passenger side (again, you should see ¼ car and ¾ road in your passenger side mirror).
–Fine-Tuning Side Mirrors– After setting the mirrors, sit back in your normal driving position to make any fine-tuning adjustments. You should be able to see the adjacent lanes and a small portion of your own car in each side mirror.
- Check Your Blind-Spots– Always, Always, Always check your blind spots. While the mirrors are critical tools for monitoring the traffic around you, adjacent objects may be located in blind spots that are not visible in the mirrors. Be sure to glance over your shoulder to check your blind spots before making any lane change.
- Maintain a Good Following Distance– Leave enough space between your vehicle and the one in front of you to allow for a smooth lane change, without the need for sudden braking or acceleration.
- Maintain a Steady Speed– Don’t be in a rush! Avoid abrupt lane changes or cutting off other drivers due to sudden increase or decrease in speed to “fit into a space”.
- Use GPS– Utilize a GPS system that audibly announces upcoming directional changes well in advance of the actions that need to be taken. And avoid listening to loud music so that you are prepared to make upcoming lane changes when directed.
- Avoid Distractions– Don’t let distractions get in the way of your driving ability. Avoid talking on the phone, eating, or reaching for items while driving.
The importance of defensive driving skills cannot be overstated for employees who drive as part of their job. By embracing a mindset of safety, staying alert, and adopting proactive driving habits, employees can navigate the roads with confidence and competence, to ensure that every journey on the road is a safe one for you and others.