Defensive driving training is valuable for any employee who drives for work, including delivery drivers, sales staff, field technicians and fleet operators. It also helps new drivers and experienced drivers who want to refresh their habits. Employers with company vehicles often use it to reduce crashes and the costs that follow.

The main principles of defensive driving are staying alert, scanning for hazards and anticipating what other drivers might do. Defensive drivers keep a safe following distance, adjust speed to conditions and leave themselves an escape route. They also avoid distractions and plan a response before a situation becomes an emergency.

A defensive driving course can lower insurance costs in some cases. Many insurers offer discounts to drivers who complete an approved course, though eligibility and savings vary by state and provider. Fewer crashes also mean lower repair bills, fewer claims and less lost work time for employers.

Handle road rage from another driver by staying calm and refusing to engage. Avoid eye contact, gestures or honking, and give the aggressive driver room to pass. If someone follows you, drive to a busy public place or police station instead of going home, and call 911 if you feel threatened.

After a car accident in a work vehicle, stop safely, turn on hazard lights and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or the vehicle blocks traffic. Exchange information with the other drivers, photograph the scene and report the crash to your supervisor and insurer following company procedures.