New Years Resolutions for Drivers

Len Dunman suggests some New Years Resolutions for Mercer's contractors.
The holiday season is a time when many people review the events of the past and make plans for the future. Common resolutions for the new year include such things as losing weight, improving relationships with family and friends, eliminating bad habits and making more money. Here are some of my suggestions for new years resolutions for drivers (several are applicable to the general motoring public, as well):
 
1) I will not have an accident. Not only will I drive in such a manner as to not endanger myself or others, I will also drive defensively to avoid the mistakes of others. I will attempt to park defensively at truckstops and rest areas as well;
 
2) I will run at or below the posted speed limit at all times. Period. No exceptions, no excuses;
 
3) I will not tailgate. As traffic allows, I will strive to maintain at least a four second following distance at all times;
 
4) I will log legal. I recognize the fact that electronic logs will be a reality in the future. I need to do it now, so being forced to do it will not bankrupt me in the future;
 
5) I will not be part of the problem on the CB radio. I will not talk to those who are;
 
6) I will equip my truck with an APU. The handwriting on the wall for national anti-idling laws is clear. I will not wait until the last minute to deal with it;
 
7) I will improve my yearly average fuel mileage by at least 1/2 mile per gallon;
 
8) I will operate and maintain my equipment, secure my cargo and keep my logs in such a way that I will not receive an out of service (OOS) violation from any law enforcement agency at any time, for any reason;
 
9) I will provide the best and finest service to every shipper and thank them for their business and loyalty in difficult economic times;
 
10) Finally, I will always wear my seatbelt, in both my CMV and POV. I will encourage all of my family and friends to do the same.
 
 
Have a safe and profitable 2009.
 
Len Dunman
Safety Director
Tele (502) 625-3161
Fax (502) 625-3158
1-800-626-5375
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