Depending on your profession, you may have access to a company vehicle. For example, many companies provide salespeople with a vehicle so they can get to appointments throughout their designated territory.
It’s easy to let down your guard when driving a company vehicle especially when you spend one hour after the next behind the wheel. Since doing so will put you at risk of an accident, follow these safety tips at all times:
- Always wear your seat belt
- Become familiar with the safety features of each vehicle you drive
- Get plenty of sleep before driving
- Don’t take any medication or substance, such as drugs or alcohol, that could make you drowsy
- Avoid distractions, such as texting a colleague or client, when your vehicle is in motion
- Practice defensive driving techniques, not aggressive driving
- On long trips, stop often to stretch and give your brain a break
- Be courteous to other drivers, even if it slows you down
- Plan your route in advance to avoid traffic, construction and anything else that could cause stress
- Treat the vehicle as if it were your own, as this lessens the likelihood of taking risks
If you’re part of an accident in a company vehicle, you should first worry about your safety and health. This often means calling 911 so that paramedics quickly arrive to provide care and transportation to a local hospital.
As soon as possible, report the accident to your employer so they can take the necessary internal steps. From there, if your injuries will keep you out of work, consider if you’re able to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. You may have the right to benefits, which will make things easier on you as you recover.