Working as a delivery driver or a taxi driver means that most of your day is spent on the road. The success of each ride is determined not only by how quickly you finish but also by how smoothly the journey goes and whether you get the passenger or packages to their destination safely. In today’s article, we will share tips on how to avoid common traffic violations and fines, so you can make each of your trips go exactly as planned.
Quick Navigation
Speeding: The Most Common Offence
Speeding is the most common traffic violation committed by drivers. Delivery and taxi driving can sometimes come with tight schedules and deadlines, which make drivers rush to meet certain goals. However, speeding presents a danger not only to you, but to everyone else — other drivers, pedestrians, and even animals. It’s important to know the speed limits for every type of road and stick to them, whatever the situation.
How to avoid a fine: Avoid speeding by always being aware of how fast you are driving and by setting speed limit alerts on your GPS.
Parking Violations: Avoiding Costly Mistakes
Both taxi and delivery drivers often have to improvise when stopping to pick up passengers or make deliveries, but improvisation can come at a cost. Double parking creates inconvenience for other drivers and can even be dangerous in case of an emergency. Parking in handicap spots, in areas that require a permit, at intersections, or on sidewalks can also result in fines. Parking in a fire lane can lead to even worse consequences, as you could not only be fined but also have your car towed or your windows broken so that firemen can access a hydrant. If you have to park in a metered spot, make sure you pay, as inspectors are often around checking tickets.
How to avoid a fine: Always pay when parking in metered zones, only park in spaces that are not reserved for people with special needs or residents of a certain zone, park at least 20 meters away from an intersection, avoid parking in areas with yellow slashed lines or signs indicating a fire lane, and never park within ten feet of any fire hydrants or along painted curbs.
Box Junctions and Red Light Cameras
A box junction is a road traffic control measure designed to prevent congestion and gridlocks at junctions. Drivers are often caught in box junctions when they cross the traffic lights as amber turns to red. The result is being stuck in the middle of two crossing roads, which greatly inconveniences other drivers and might even cause an accident. There are often red light cameras installed at intersections that will photograph your vehicle if you cross a red light, leading to a fine.
How to avoid a fine: In box junctions, only enter the box area when your exit road or lane is clear. If you see an amber light, don’t try to rush to beat the red. Keep yourself and everyone else safe, and avoid a costly fine.
Mobile Phones and Seatbelts
Using mobile phones has become such a problem on the roads that it has surpassed accidents caused by driving under the influence. The average reaction time of drivers is usually around three-quarters of a second, but using a mobile phone while driving can triple your reaction time, often resulting in accidents. Regarding seatbelts, every person in the vehicle must wear one. A seatbelt should never be shared between two people. Failure to wear a seatbelt while driving, even over short distances, can result in a fine and put your life at risk.
How to avoid a fine: Avoid using mobile phones while driving. If you must use one for work or an emergency, pull over safely before using it. If you cannot stop, use a hands-free device or Bluetooth. Always wear your seatbelt, no matter how short the trip.
Being Aware, Staying Safe
Remember, following traffic laws isn’t just about keeping money in your wallet; it’s also about ensuring your safety and the safety of others. Study the traffic laws for your country and the types of roads you usually use, and plan your routes in advance so you can avoid improvising and ensure smooth rides.
If you’re looking for new opportunities as a driver, check out our microlearning course on job hunting.