We all have some sort of pride in our capabilities to operate or handle our rigs however, we can not let our own ego's depict our failures on the trail and potentially put lives in danger. What should be taken seriously is how to mitigate or lessen possible accidents that can turn out to be quite costly not only to our wallets but most importantly to somebody's life.
Believe it or not hitting a fixed, stationary object is more likely to happen than crashing into a moving objects. Whether it is a fixed object, stationary object or collision, these types of crashes are often caused by driver inattention or rushing. Accidents with a fixed or stationary object are mostly always considered 100% preventable, there are a few scenarios out there that are unavoidable these situations have to be approached differently. When backing up is necessary, drivers must be aware of their surroundings. Remember to apply the GOALden rule of backing: “Get Out And Look.” Proper utilization of ground guides is imperative to avoid an accident. Use a Ground Guide. Practice situational awareness. Pay attention!
Operating any vehicle or equipment at a National / State Park, Forest, established trail such as the the TAT or Gerorgia Traverse have rules and regulations governing vehicle travel which we must comply with while no matter how far out into the middle of nowhere you find yourself. These requirements include:
Complying with all traffic laws and posted signs
Driving at speeds appropriate for the road, traffic, and weather conditions
Being aware of roads that are not wide enough for certain vehicles or equipment
Being aware of weather condition that can cause unstable ground
Only using cell phones, GPS or other devises when absolutely necessary: if you can pull over safely off the road to gain your bearings or make that important call its best to practice this and lose a little time.
Requiring all occupants to use their seat belts before moving the vehicle
Paying attention to parked vehicles on the side of the road
Always coming to a complete stop at posted stop signs
Ensure sufficient clearance before making turns. Avoid turning too soon causing the vehicle to strike objects next to it
Ensure sufficient clearance when driving between objects or parking. Be careful of low clearance bridges, low hanging tree limbs or even parking garages so you do not tear of your roof racks!
Ensure objects that move, such as gates or roll up garage doors, are secured from moving and provide adequate clearance before driving through the area
While driving at night, increase distance when following behind another vehicle. It is more difficult to judge other vehicle’s speed and distance when visibility is limited.
Give the right away to other vehicles just entering the trail and wait for the signal to pass, move forward and leave slowly. When the signal has been given to pass, note again the size of your vehicle and its load in comparison to the obstacles you must now navigate. Use your mirrors. Remember, some crossings are difficult to pass…Watch to be sure your vehicle and load is passing.
If you are driving alone allow groups or convoys coming your way to pass unimpeded. This helps to ensure your safety, the safety of others on the same trail.
Routinely perform safe driving observations on vehicles and ground guide use with to help operators and ground guides recognize hazards and apply safe practices to assist in safely executing route driving.
Use a vehicle only for its intended purpose, operate your rig in a safe and responsible manner. Do not drive recklessly or endanger other vehicles or pedestrians and do not operate a vehicle while physically or mentally impaired.
Observe posted speed limits and adjust to current road conditions.
Turn off the engine when leaving a motor vehicle unattended.
Never allow passengers to ride on a vehicle tailgate and do not permit passengers to ride in a truck bed without proper protective gear.
Only access authorized areas for which you have proper permission to access and egress.
The end state is we must practice a little bit of humility about our own driving capabilities and lead by example!
Believe it or not hitting a fixed, stationary object is more likely to happen than crashing into a moving objects. Whether it is a fixed object, stationary object or collision, these types of crashes are often caused by driver inattention or rushing. Accidents with a fixed or stationary object are mostly always considered 100% preventable, there are a few scenarios out there that are unavoidable these situations have to be approached differently. When backing up is necessary, drivers must be aware of their surroundings. Remember to apply the GOALden rule of backing: “Get Out And Look.” Proper utilization of ground guides is imperative to avoid an accident. Use a Ground Guide. Practice situational awareness. Pay attention!
Operating any vehicle or equipment at a National / State Park, Forest, established trail such as the the TAT or Gerorgia Traverse have rules and regulations governing vehicle travel which we must comply with while no matter how far out into the middle of nowhere you find yourself. These requirements include:
Complying with all traffic laws and posted signs
Driving at speeds appropriate for the road, traffic, and weather conditions
Being aware of roads that are not wide enough for certain vehicles or equipment
Being aware of weather condition that can cause unstable ground
Only using cell phones, GPS or other devises when absolutely necessary: if you can pull over safely off the road to gain your bearings or make that important call its best to practice this and lose a little time.
Requiring all occupants to use their seat belts before moving the vehicle
Paying attention to parked vehicles on the side of the road
Always coming to a complete stop at posted stop signs
Ensure sufficient clearance before making turns. Avoid turning too soon causing the vehicle to strike objects next to it
Ensure sufficient clearance when driving between objects or parking. Be careful of low clearance bridges, low hanging tree limbs or even parking garages so you do not tear of your roof racks!
Ensure objects that move, such as gates or roll up garage doors, are secured from moving and provide adequate clearance before driving through the area
While driving at night, increase distance when following behind another vehicle. It is more difficult to judge other vehicle’s speed and distance when visibility is limited.
Give the right away to other vehicles just entering the trail and wait for the signal to pass, move forward and leave slowly. When the signal has been given to pass, note again the size of your vehicle and its load in comparison to the obstacles you must now navigate. Use your mirrors. Remember, some crossings are difficult to pass…Watch to be sure your vehicle and load is passing.
If you are driving alone allow groups or convoys coming your way to pass unimpeded. This helps to ensure your safety, the safety of others on the same trail.
Routinely perform safe driving observations on vehicles and ground guide use with to help operators and ground guides recognize hazards and apply safe practices to assist in safely executing route driving.
Use a vehicle only for its intended purpose, operate your rig in a safe and responsible manner. Do not drive recklessly or endanger other vehicles or pedestrians and do not operate a vehicle while physically or mentally impaired.
Observe posted speed limits and adjust to current road conditions.
Turn off the engine when leaving a motor vehicle unattended.
Never allow passengers to ride on a vehicle tailgate and do not permit passengers to ride in a truck bed without proper protective gear.
Only access authorized areas for which you have proper permission to access and egress.
The end state is we must practice a little bit of humility about our own driving capabilities and lead by example!