Safe Communication with Drivers and Pedestrians
Highways and roads are essential for getting us where we need to go, but they can also be risky places if drivers aren’t careful. Every year, thousands of accidents happen due to distracted driving, unsafe passing, and ignoring safety laws. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a professional driver, understanding and following key safety rules can help protect you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. In this post, we’ll look at why highway safety matters and share simple ways you can help make our roads safer for everyone.
In this issue:
- Information on National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 20 to 24
- International Roadcheck 2026 May 12-14th.
To ensure driver safety clear communication with those that you share the road with is vital. Use the following to communicate with other drivers on the road.
- Use turn signals to let drivers know you are turning, changing lanes, pulling out of a parking space, or pulling away from the curb. Signal at least four seconds before taking action.
- Use emergency signals when you are experiencing trouble on the road and your vehicle poses a hazard to others, such as a breakdown, flat tire, etc.
- Tap the horn lightly to get the attention of another driver or pedestrian. Avoid using the horn out of frustration with other drivers’ actions.
- Headlights: Most modern trucks are equipped with daytime running lights that activate automatically, increasing your visibility to other drivers. Flashing your headlights can also be used to alert oncoming traffic to hazards ahead, such as accidents or road obstructions.
Always signal at least four seconds before making a turn to ensure other drivers have adequate warning.
Emergency Signals (4 Ways)
What does the FMCSA say about horns?
Per CFR §393.81, every commercial motor vehicle must be equipped with a horn capable of providing an adequate and reliable warning signal.
DOT Interpretations:
- The FMCSRs do not specify a required type of horn.
- There are no minimum sound level requirements.
Can you drive a CMV if the horn is not working?
Answer: No.
Per CFR §392.7, a driver must ensure all required equipment is in proper working condition before operating a vehicle. This includes brakes, steering, lights, tires, horn, wipers, mirrors, and coupling devices.
Headlights
Many trucking companies ensure that low-beam headlights are always on when the engine is running. In addition, numerous states mandate the use of headlights whenever windshield wipers are operating. Both practices improve safety and visibility.
Consider the following safety checks:
- Are your headlights clear and free of fog or dirt?
- Do you inspect your headlights, turn signals, and brake lights for cleanliness during pre- and post-trip checks?
The National Institute for Traffic and Highway Safety reports that dim, cloudy, or malfunctioning headlights are the leading cause of severe nighttime accidents. Reduced headlight output greatly lessens visibility and increases risk.
A University of Iowa study found that a 20–50% reduction in headlight output can raise accident risk by up to 90%. This risk is avoidable—headlights can be cleaned, repaired, or replaced easily.
Dim It!
Is flashing high beams illegal?
In some states, flashing your headlights at another vehicle—particularly those moving slowly in the passing lane—can result in a citation.
The main concern is that flashing high beams can temporarily impair another driver's vision, leading to reduced visibility and an increased risk of accidents.
For additional information on distracted driving visit the following websites:
Highways are dangerous, so everyone must help keep them safe.
Every state has “Move Over” laws to protect police and first responders stopped on roadways, but many drivers don’t know about them. Traffic incidents are still the top cause of death for on-duty officers.
Groups like NHTSA and law enforcement are working to raise awareness about “Move Over” laws and the need to protect public safety professionals.
By spreading the word locally and on social media, you can help save lives.
Learn more here:
https://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/get-materials/first-responder-safety/move-over
2026 National Work Zone Awareness Week (April 20–24)
National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) happens each spring to remind drivers to be extra careful in work zones.
For more information, visit:
NATIONAL WORK ZONE AWARENESS WEEK – Home
International Roadcheck 2026 (May 12–14)
International Roadcheck is a yearly three-day event where inspectors check commercial vehicles and drivers for safety.
It’s the world’s largest commercial vehicle safety inspection, with about 15 vehicles checked every minute during the event.
Since 1988, over 1.8 million inspections have taken place during International Roadcheck. The event also helps teach the public and industry about safe commercial vehicle operations.
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) sponsors International Roadcheck with help from safety agencies in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
The 2026 Idealease/NPTC Safety Seminars Are being planned!
Idealease and the National Private Truck Council NPTC hosted 18 safety seminars in 2025. We are getting ready for the next sessions in the Spring and Fall of 2026. The one-day seminars will focus on basic safety and compliance, regulation changes and CSA. The seminars will be provided to all Idealease customers, potential customers and NPTC members at no charge. The seminar provides valuable information applicable for both novice and experienced transportation professionals.
Register for our Safety Seminar happening on June 11th, 2026 in Aurora, CO. Learn more about this event and register now
To register for an upcoming seminars in 2026, click on the following link.
http://www.idealease.com/safety-seminar-registration
*The Idealease Safety Bulletin is provided for Idealease locations and their customers and is not to be construed as a complete or exhaustive source of compliance or safety information. The Idealease Safety Bulletin is advisory in nature and does not warrant, guarantee, or otherwise certify compliance with laws, regulations, requirements, or guidelines of any local, state, or Federal agency and/or governing body, or industry standards.
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