DID YOU KNOW?

• Traffic related accidents accounted for 32% of all injuries and deaths from 2000-2005.
• The economic impact of traffic safety hits everyone’s pocket book.  Over the last decade: 13,000 civilian workers, or about 4 each day, died in roadway crashes on the job.
• Roadway crashes were the leading cause of death on the job, causing 22% of all workplace deaths.
• In 2000 crash victims lost $61 billion in wages and benefits.
• Employers lost $4.6 billion in productivity due to employees involved in traffic crashes.

Source:  NHTSA Region II Director Remarks at Mid Atlantic Regional Safety Conference, April 2008

Pulling a camper or boat this summer?
Before driving, make sure your vehicle and trailer maintenance is current. This is very important because towing puts additional stress on the tow vehicle.

• Check and correct tire pressure on the tow vehicle and trailer.
• Make sure the wheel lug nuts/bolts on the tow vehicle and trailer are tightened to the correct torque.
• Be sure the hitch, coupler, draw bar, and other equipment that connect the trailer and the tow vehicle are properly secured and adjusted.
• Check that the wiring is properly connected—not touching the road, but loose enough to make turns without disconnecting or damaging the wires.
• Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights are working.
• Verify that the brakes on the tow vehicle and trailer are operating correctly.
• Check that all items are securely fastened on and in the trailer.
• Be sure the trailer jack, tongue support, and any attached stabilizers are raised and locked in place.
• Check load distribution to make sure the tow vehicle and trailer are properly balanced front to back and side to side.
• Check side- and rear-view mirrors to make sure you have good visibility.
• Check routes and restrictions on bridges and tunnels.
• Make sure you have wheel chocks and jack stands.

Source: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/Cars/Problems/Equipment/towing/predepartures.htm