Since 2011, Nebraska has seen a total of 2,232 fatality crashes of which 466 (21%) involved large trucks (>10,000lbs) (NHTSA, 2022). By the end of 2021 in Nebraska, rural highways significantly took more lives than any other roadway (see below, NDOT, 2021).
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These rural roads are more likely to have narrow lanes, limited shoulders, sharp curves, exposed hazards, pavement drop-offs, and lack up-to-date maintenance. Have those safety conversations with your employee’s about Non-interstate rural roads such as state highways to give them that extra heads up the next time they are out!
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Reminder, Winter Weather’s in full swing: The roads can be a bit dicey for traveling to see our family & friends. Continue to stress the importance of driving in winter conditions to your teams…
Be Prepared – Travel with extra warm clothing, ice scraper, blankets! You never know what could happen in Nebraska during the winter months.
Slow Down – Ice and snow may be present on the roads that can cause skidding
Increase following distance – Increase to 8-10 seconds to allow for extra breaking distance in case of skidding or sliding.
Skidding – If you begin to skid, steer in the direction of the skid. This helps your wheels regain traction and avoids over correcting.
Supplies – Shovel, Jumper Cables, and Cat Litter are great items to jump a car battery, dig out of snow, and provide traction.
Maps – Use that technology! Choose routes that avoid traffic congestions and avoid routes that present large hills
PAY ATTENTION! – 1 in 10 drivers you meet on the roads in Nebraska are not looking at the road but instead focused on a cell phone or electronic device (NDOT, January 2023). Visit NeDrivingConcern.org/do-not-disturb/ to set up your “do not disturb” mode on your phones to eliminate incoming calls & text messages while driving!
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SAFETY MEETING TOPIC…?
Invite our Health Educator out to your location/Virtually for free traffic safety presentations
Hayden Romig
Hromig@safenebraska.org
402.898.7368