Safe Driving Tips

In 1917, UPS bicycle messengers and drivers of the company's Ford Model T package delivery vehicles were given their first defensive driving handbook. As the company grew, UPS's safe driving honor roll grew. The first five-year safe driving award was presented in 1928 to Ray McCue by the company's founder, Jim Casey. Inscribed in the gold and platinum watch presented to McCue was, "In appreciation of five years of continuous service without an automobile accident."

Today, UPS celebrates each safe driving accomplishment and inducts 25-year safe drivers into the Circle of Honor, now with 4,451 drivers. Two hundred forty one of those have more than 35 years without an accident.

The Five Seeing Habits

What is the secret of on the road success for UPS drivers? We call it the "Five Seeing Habits," tips that stress the importance of space and visibility when driving.

Five Seeing Habits: Aim High In Steering: Look as far down the road as possible to uncover important traffic information to make appropriate decisions. Get The Big Picture: Maintain the proper following distance so you can comfortably determine the true hazards around your vehicle. Don't tailgate others. Keep Your Eyes Moving: Scan - don't stare. Constantly shift you eyes while driving. Active eyes keep up with changing traffic conditions. Leave Yourself An Out: Be prepared. Surround your vehicle with space in front and at least on one side to escape conflict. Make Sure They See You: Communicate in traffic with your horn, lights and signals to establish eye contact with motorists and pedestrians. Be reasonably sure of people's intentions.

Learn More About Safety Training Programs at UPS  Back to Top Teen Drivers Throughout the past ten years, more than 68,000 teens lost their lives in driving accidents on U.S. Highways, according to statistics by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In an effort to educate and train first-time drivers to be safer on the roads, UPS worked with the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety in Washington, D.C. to develop the Novice Driver's Road Map - a guide for parents to instill safe driving habits. UPS also combines its sponsorship of NASCAR with its own safety emphasis to distinguish the skills of professional drivers on the track and roadways. Teen motorists in metro areas across the United States have plugged into interactive computer training sessions conducted by UPS safety managers using the company's own comprehensive defensive driving course, which emphasizes the UPS Five Seeing Habits.  Back to Top