Driving for Work
Transportation incidents are the leading cause of work-related deaths in the U.S. Driving between the shop and jobsites, hauling trailers and running for parts all count.
- All workers
Before you drive
- Quick vehicle check: tires, lights, mirrors, brakes, wipers
- Tools and materials secured so they can’t fly forward in a crash
- Trailer properly hitched and loaded. See Trailers.
- Route planned; enough rest
Behind the wheel
- Everyone wears a seatbelt, every trip.
- Put the phone away. Set navigation before you start. No texting, ever.
- Slow down in work zones and bad weather.
- Pull over if you’re drowsy. Fatigue after long shifts is a major crash cause.
- Never drive after drinking or using drugs, including some prescription medications.
- Back up as little as possible; walk around before backing.
Riders
Never ride in the bed of a pickup, on a trailer, or on equipment without a seat and seatbelt.
Larger trucks may be covered by DOT rules. See DOT Rules for Work Trucks.
Standards & references
Last updated: