Vehicle Selection and Maintenance
Selection and Assignment
It is important to ensure that the vehicles you select for a specific function are adequate in design and capability for the intended purpose.
It is the responsibility of each driver to select the appropriate vehicle to be used in performing their tasks. Make sure your employees keep all vehicles well maintained and in safe and efficient operating condition at all times.
For the latest information on crash test ratings and other important vehicle safety information, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) . To report a concern about a possible defect or problem with a vehicle, contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline .
One Driver, One Vehicle Strategy
Where practical, companies should consider adopting a "one driver, one vehicle" strategy. This approach involves assigning each driver to a specific vehicle on a regular basis. Although it may not work in every situation, it can provide several key benefits when used correctly.
This strategy offers the following advantages:
- Encourages Responsibility and Ownership: When a driver is assigned to the same vehicle, they are more likely to take pride in its condition. They tend to treat the vehicle with more care, keep it cleaner, and report any damage or wear right away. This sense of personal responsibility and ownership can improve safety and reduce repair costs over time.
- Improves Vehicle Familiarity: Drivers who use the same vehicle every day become familiar with how it handles and performs. They learn the sounds, feel, and behavior of the vehicle. This makes it easier for them to notice changes that could signal a mechanical issue.
- Speeds Up Problem Detection: Since the driver knows what is normal for that vehicle, they can quickly detect early warning signs of trouble. Strange noises, changes in braking or steering, or dashboard alerts are more likely to be caught early, allowing for faster maintenance and fewer breakdowns.
- Supports Better Recordkeeping: With one driver using the same vehicle, it becomes easier to track how it is being used and maintained. This can help managers schedule regular servicing, review inspection logs, and follow up on any issues reported by the driver.
While this strategy may not fit every company’s operations, it can be very effective in promoting better vehicle care, improving safety, and lowering repair costs. When possible, assigning one driver to one vehicle is a smart and practical choice.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
7-1. The "one driver, one vehicle" strategy tends to instill in the driver a sense of _____.
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