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In addition to flexibility and freedom, taking on owner driver courier jobs comes with a lot of responsibility, particularly when it comes to road safety. Making sure you are knowledgeable about safety procedures and well-prepared for when hazards do arise are important aspects of delivery work, and should certainly not be overlooked. Here are a few ways in which you can enhance your safety on the roads while working as a delivery driver. • Have Plenty of Rest People in the transport sector are often tempted to work longer hours, but no matter how much you need to get done, it’s important to make sure you are taking regular breaks and sleeping enough at night. Far too many accidents are caused by fatigue and poor control of the vehicle. Lack of sleep can also lead to dizziness and hallucinations – neither of which is helpful for drivers! • Be Prepared Having a small bag of essentials is a useful trick for an owner driver. Courier jobs can often present unforeseen situations, so having a few things such as a map, scissors, duct tape and some tools packed for emergencies can be very handy, both for you and other drivers. • Ensure Your Vehicle is Safe to Drive When it comes to safety on the roads, regular vehicle check-ups are definitely the way forward. Knowing your van is in the best condition possible will make your driving experience not only easier, but also a lot less stressful. If you think your vehicle might need some maintenance, never hesitate – you can put yourself and other drivers at huge risk if you allow a poor-quality vehicle on the road. Common problems to look out for include issues with tyres, steering, brakes and wheel bearings. • Know How to Handle Emergency Situations No matter how well you can control your van, you never know how another driver might react – avoidance of accidents is never 100% guaranteed. If you happen to be in an accident or witness one nearby, knowing how to react is an excellent skill to have, and could potentially save lives. Having knowledge concerning certain emergency procedures, such as treating minor injuries and preventing further damage, will help you feel more at ease while on the roads. • Drive Smart People who spend their lives on the roads doing owner driver courier jobs can occasionally fall into bad driving habits. One of these is flashing lights at other drivers to signal that it is safe for them to pass. Despite this being a polite gesture, the bright light can temporarily blind the other driver, which is extremely dangerous, especially at a junction. Whether you’re new to the courier game or an old-timer, hopefully these tips have taught you something new (or reminded you of something old) and will steer you in the right direction when it comes to road safety. Author Plate Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day owner driver courier jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 5,400 member companies are networked together through the Exchange to fill empty capacity, get new clients and form long-lasting business relationships.
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