By Lauren Dugan, Director of Safety and Risk Management
As we transition from summer into fall, the driving hazards our landscape crews face begin to change. Whether you’re traveling between jobsites, towing a trailer, hauling equipment, or navigating residential neighborhoods, defensive driving becomes even more important this time of year. Taking a few extra moments behind the wheel can prevent accidents, protect our equipment, and most importantly, ensure everyone gets home safely.
One of the biggest seasonal hazards is the increase in deer activity. Deer become much more active during the fall, especially at dawn and dusk when visibility is already reduced. Rural roads, wooded areas, and neighborhoods with green spaces are common places for deer crossings. If you spot one deer, expect more to follow. Slow down, keep both hands on the wheel, and avoid swerving suddenly, which can often cause a more serious crash than striking the animal itself.
Another seasonal challenge is reduced daylight. As the days get shorter, many crews will be driving to jobsites before sunrise or returning to the branch after dark. Reduced visibility makes it more difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, parked vehicles, and changing road conditions. Take time during your daily vehicle inspection to ensure headlights, brake lights, and trailer lights are all working properly. Clean windows and mirrors regularly, and slow down anytime visibility is limited.
Back-to-school traffic also requires extra attention. School buses, crossing guards, children walking to bus stops, and parents dropping off students all increase congestion, especially during the morning commute. Always obey school zone speed limits and stop for school buses when required by law. Children can be unpredictable, so never assume they see your vehicle or will stay on the sidewalk.
One of the most effective defensive driving habits is maintaining a safe following distance. Our trucks often carry heavy loads of mulch, stone, plants, or equipment, and many are towing trailers. These vehicles require significantly more distance to stop. Leave at least a four-second following distance in normal conditions and increase that distance during rain, fog, or heavy traffic. Following too closely leaves little time to react if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly.
Backing incidents continue to be one of the most preventable types of vehicle accidents in our industry. Before backing, take a few extra seconds to walk around your vehicle and identify any obstacles, equipment, pedestrians, or low-hanging branches. Whenever possible, park so you can pull forward when leaving. If a spotter is available, use them and maintain clear communication throughout the maneuver. Never assume the area behind your vehicle is clear simply because it was a few moments ago.
Finally, remember that defensive driving includes properly securing your load. As crews begin hauling more leaf cleanup equipment, debris, and other materials throughout the fall, ensure trailers are loaded correctly, equipment is tied down, and loose materials are secured before leaving every jobsite. A shifting load or unsecured equipment can quickly become a serious hazard for both your crew and other vehicles on the road.
Every mile we drive is an opportunity to protect ourselves, our coworkers, and our company. Slow down, stay alert, eliminate distractions, and never let the schedule dictate your driving decisions. Safe driving isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about arriving at every jobsite and returning home at the end of the day safely.