WASHINGTON — The Postal Service has one of largest fleets in the world, with more than 246,000 vehicles that drive more than a billion miles every year, delivering mail to more than 169 million delivery points across the nation. Safe driving is a paramount part of our duties as we are Delivering for America.
As part of a safe driving public awareness campaign, the Postal Service is reminding customers of the importance of staying vigilant when maneuvering near postal vehicles.
“Postal Service employees drive our nation’s roads every day, providing a vital service, to deliver America’s mail safely. It is something we strive to do 365 days a year,” said USPS Employee Safety and Health Awareness Manager Leeann Theriault. “We encourage the public to stay alert when around postal vehicles, and together, we can protect our drivers and everyone else on the road. This will reduce risks and ensure that everyone, including our employees, make it home safe.”
Our vehicles frequently make stops while delivering the mail, so when you see one on the road, be cautious and give them space. Take extra care and avoid unnecessary movements that might lead to a collision.
All employees who operate a postal vehicle are trained on how to drive safely. This includes driving in inclement weather, or when navigating the roads less traveled of our rural communities or on the congested streets of our biggest cities. Our employees know to be alert and focused when behind the wheel, and thousands have been awarded for their safe driving achievements over the years.
“When moving mail from one postal facility to another, driving safe is my main objective,” said USPS Tractor Trailor Operator Carter Scott. “I always take the appropriate time to be vigilant and expect the unexpected. Just like when I drive my personal vehicle.”
The Public Can Help
We need the public’s help to do their part when driving, walking or riding a bike near a postal vehicle.
Pay Attention to Our Vehicles: If you see one of our vehicles making a delivery near your home, slow down. Give our drivers enough space to park and maneuver safely.
Check for Blind Spots: When backing out of your driveway or pulling into your street, look out for our vehicles. Double-check blind spots to ensure no one is in your path.
Avoid Distracted Driving: Phones down, eyes on the road. Accidents happen fast, especially when distractions take your attention away from our vehicles on narrow streets or driveways.
Don’t Block Our Vehicles: If you see one of our vehicles making a delivery in front of your home, please don’t park too close or obstruct the driveway. This can cause dangerous situations when our drivers have to navigate around parked cars in tight places.
Why This Matters: Too often, accidents happen simply because drivers are not paying attention or are in too much of a hurry. Our employees are on the street every day and we count on your awareness to help prevent collisions and keep everyone safe.
Let’s Be Clear: Visually, our vehicles are hard to miss. Yet, accidents still happen because other drivers fail to slow down and give our vehicles the space they need. Please do your part. These accidents are preventable, and together we can make our streets safer.
We look forward to continuing to serve our communities and appreciate your commitment to helping keep our roads safe. Together, we can ensure that everyone is safe while we deliver America’s mail. Use the hashtag #USPSVehicleAwareness to share this important information online.
