Smith System Debuts New Weather-based E-Learning Driving Course
Smith System, a leader in advanced driver training, has announced the newest addition to its training series: Driving Weather.
Available through streaming and on DVD, Driving Weather joins Smith System’s e-learning library, which includes course offerings such as Driving Distracted, Driving Drowsy, Driving Technology and Driving The Smith5Keys.
Here’s why the new course is so relevant: Each year, almost half a million people are injured in weather-related crashes, resulting in nearly 6,000 deaths. What’s more, almost one quarter of all traffic collisions are related to bad weather, and the majority occur on wet pavement during rainfall. Other conditions such as snow and ice, fog, smoke, wind and flooding also impact roadways.
“Extreme and fast-changing weather tests the limits of all drivers, regardless of experience. The difference is how you adjust,” said Jim Smith, Senior Vice President of Training at Smith. “Our goal is to prepare drivers to deal with the unexpected. Crashes are preventable if you are prepared.”
The new Driving Weather course is designed to help fleet drivers adapt their driving habits to inclement weather and its effects on visibility and traction — and to protect themselves from other drivers — using The Smith5Keys®, Smith System’s proven driving methodology.
These skills include looking ahead to assess road and driving conditions, checking mirrors frequently while maintaining the proper following distance and avoiding sudden braking, hydroplaning and loss of control.
The course also covers the importance of setting up for good visibility by regularly replacing wiper blades and ensuring that all headlights, mirrors, turn signals, brake lights and defrosters are clean and working properly.
“When weather changes, so do road conditions,” said Smith. “Visibility and traction are negatively affected, and the unpredictable behavior of other drivers on the road is also a factor. The safest driving strategy in bad weather is to avoid it, but that isn’t always an option. If you have to be out on the roads, be prepared to safeguard yourself and your vehicle.”
Category: General Update, News, Training
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