The little things we do

A recent thread got me thinking about the dangers on the road and the little things we do to stay safe.

My driving instructor would talk about different things that could go wrong. He would talk about how the unexpected would jump up and bite you when you least expected it. He would emphasize how bad bad is when it involves a big truck. I'm paraphrasing but he would always end his point with something along the lines of 'and if that happens, life as you know it will be drastically changed forever'.

That's not exactly a profound revelation. We all know how much death and destruction even a SmartCar can cause. We all respect the added potential with the extra size and weight, limited maneuverability and increased stopping distances with these 75' 80000# beasts we control. It's the reason we do all those little things without thinking that the willfully ignorant don't even think of doing.

It's why we don't let ourselves get complacent, even after 12 hours behind the wheel or after getting away from heavy traffic.

It's why we keep a respectable following distance and add a little more when someone is tailgating us or when traffic ahead is bunched up too close together.

It's the reason we keep things in perspective and don't feel rushed when we're running late and stuck in heavy traffic.

It's the reason we drive slow in the truck stops and make eye contact with pedestrians.

It's why we make a conscious effort to not intimidate/distract/pressure the guy who's going really slow in bad weather.

It's the reason that, when we see a tow truck on the shoulder ahead, we move over a little early to allow those behind time to see it and react.

It's the reason we make sure what we are driving is road worthy.

It's the reason we pay a little closer attention when cresting a hill or rounding a corner.

It's why we plan our routes and don't just turn down any road when we miss a turn or our exit is closed.

It's the reason we look at traffic far ahead for possible problems.

It's why we keep the glass clean and the mirrors adjusted.

It's the reason we make sure we know where everything is in the truck so we can keep our eyes where they belong.

It's why we make sure we have a spare headlight and wiper blade, even if we have to buy it ourself.

It's the reason we try real hard to not put ourselves or anyone else in a position where we or they have to do anything too quickly or evasive.

It's the reason we instinctively do all the little things that minimize the risk of life being drastically changed forever.