TTSAO Training Tip of the Week #4 – PTI Approach

We are going back to some small but important safety tips that will improve your Defensive Driving.

Keep this one in mind when driving in urban settings, like Lakeshore Rd in the GTA, or any other similar busy roads.

When driving your commercial vehicle others around you are not aware of your dimensions and ability to stop quickly.

So, when approaching an intersection where the cross traffic must stop, look to see the front bumper lower toward the
pavement to signify the brakes being applied on the approaching vehicles. The more rapid the movement downward, the harder the brake application. You can use this same reference when driving your car after work.

Also, those busy roads can have parked vehicles lined up beside you. To make sure they are not going to interfere with your path, look to see if there are lights on, specifically brake lights, or if you see a head in the driver’s seat location. This usually is the start to a movement to rejoin the travel lane.

Other points of verification will be if you notice movement of the tires, or feet underneath the front of the vehicle for a pedestrian movement. Be vigilant and use this as part of your scan during observation.

TTSAO has great instructors, so don’t be afraid to step up and offer one or more of your great tips!

Your next inspection priority is to assess the vehicle from outside.
After examining the vehicle from Approach, and conducting the Under the Hood inspection, now its time to inspect the exterior
components.

Let’s start with checking your lights. Place the keys in the ignition and turn half way to illuminate your lights. Put the lights on, and activate the left turn signal.

Then proceed to the front of the vehicle, look for the low beams to be on, and where they are directed, plus check that the left turn signal lights are indicating. Are the clearance lights on and are all lit? Walk to the rear and make certain that the rear lights are on, and the signal is active.

Return to the cab, switch to the right turn signal, and activate the high beams. Now back to the front of the cab and observe the high beams are working, and the right turn signal is active.

Same procedure at the rear of the cab to check the lights.

Next Tip will be about physical checks to the Exterior.