UPS Gives Tips On Safe Driving to Motorists
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--May 9, 2002--In an effort to minimize traffic accidents this summer season, UPS has joined with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Dale Jarrett, driver of the #88 UPS Ford Taurus on NASCAR's Winston Cup circuit, with a clear message to motorists -- practice safe driving habits.
While National Transportation Week, May 12-18, is a time to celebrate the freedom of travel in this nation, it also marks the most dangerous time of the year to be on U.S. highways. According to NHTSA, on average 13,000 Americans are killed between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.
Safe driving is a top priority for the world's largest package delivery company. UPS enlisted Dale Jarrett to discuss UPS's Five Seeing Habits to help the everyday driver be safe on the road.
1) Aim High In Steering: Look as far down the road as possible to
uncover important traffic information to make appropriate
decisions.
2) Get The Big Picture: Maintain the proper following distance so
you can comfortably determine the true hazards around your
vehicle. Don't tailgate others.
3) Keep Your Eyes Moving: Scan - don't stare. Constantly shift
your eyes while driving. Active eyes keep up with changing
traffic conditions.
4) Leave Yourself An Out: Be prepared. Surround your vehicle with
space in front and at least on one side to escape conflict.
5) Make Sure They See You: Communicate in traffic with your horn,
lights and signals to establish eye contact with motorists and
pedestrians. Be reasonably sure of people's intentions.
"Safety is the responsibility of all drivers," said Jarrett. "Whether you're driving to the grocery store or taking a family road trip, it's important for all motorists to exercise safe driving practices like UPS's Five Seeing Habits and realize that no one is accident-proof."
While traffic fatalities have remained constant, averaging around 41,000 deaths per year since 1993, the number of vehicles on U.S. highways has increased by 18% in the past ten years. This is a concern for NHTSA because increased traffic yields greater accident probability.
"Most injuries and deaths on U.S. highways are preventable," said Dr. Jeff Runge, Administrator of NHTSA and noted medical expert in motor vehicle injury care and prevention. "Summer is a busy travel season. That's why we are happy to be partners with UPS to promote safe driving and seatbelt use. As a professional driver, Dale Jarrett knows the importance of keeping your body safely restrained on the racetrack and our roadways."
Today, UPS's 85,000 drivers log more than 2 billion miles per year and average less than one accident for every million miles driven. UPS recognizes the achievements of its service providers through the Circle of Honor program that annually rewards drivers who have achieved 25 years or more of safe driving. UPS has more than 2,800 active Circle of Honor Drivers.
With this program UPS expands its marketing platform and services to NASCAR's growing fan base to link with safety messages that transfer the professional skills of both UPS drivers and the popular #88 driver to the general motoring public. Visit www.racing.ups.com for more information about the UPS Five Seeing Habits for driving safely, UPS Racing and #88 team performance and features.
