ATLANTA, GA – United Parcel Service’s (UPS) more than 100,000 drivers average less than one accident for every million miles driven. The safety record is based on the commitment of the company to provide its employees with the best training available. In 2007, UPS will invest $38 million and 1.3 million hours on safety training.

And in the past five years, the UPS accident rate has dropped by 30 percent. UPS delivery drivers don’t use a driving facility or controlled environment to train. Instead, UPS has a defensive driving course called “Space and Visibility,” and it is typically completed out on roads and highways.

Package car drivers receive 20 hours of classroom and road training, and they complete three safety ride evaluations during their first 22 days as a new driver. These safety rides become the mainstay for UPS drivers. They may receive an evaluation ride from their supervisor every six months, and in the event of a preventable collision, they receive additional training as well as discipline.

Training immediately follows a preventable collision.

The UPS secret to success in road safety is described as the “Five Seeing Habits.” These five guidelines stress the importance of space and visibility when driving:

  • Aim high in steering: Look as far down the road as possible to uncover important traffic information to make appropriate decisions.
  • Get the big picture: Maintain the proper following distance so you can comfortably determine the true hazards around your vehicle. Don’t tailgate others.
  • Keep your eyes moving: scan — don’t stare. Constantly shift your eyes while driving. Active eyes keep up with changing traffic conditions.
  • Leave yourself an out: Be prepared. Surround your vehicle with space in front and at least on one side to escape conflict.
  • 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.

    UPS spends more than $5 million a year recognizing safe drivers.

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