As a courier driver, it is quite likely that you will be working longer hours than normal in the weeks leading up to Christmas. As a result, you may feel tired and if that is the case you may be well advised to take a break to reduce the possibility of being involved in a road traffic accident.

When you are out in your courier van or if you are using your own car to deliver parcels it is quite likely that you will be making some of those deliveries in the dark whether that be very early in the morning or in the later part of the afternoon or evening. Make sure that your lights are all in good working order and you clean them regularly. As a result, you are more likely to see that person crossing the road dressed in dark clothes.

Keep your distance when driving especially in slippery conditions such as snow and ice and when it has been raining. Make sure that you have a full reservoir of water to be used to keep your windscreen and rear window clean so that you can easily see out.

Yes, it is probably the busiest time of your year but keep well within the speed limit when out making deliveries. You do not want to have to pay a speeding fine and get points on your driving license. Most customers should understand how busy you are and your scheduled delivery time may not always go according to plan.

Remember, thieves will assume that you are carrying more parcels than normal leading up to Christmas. So, whilst it may seem a bit of a pain and increase your delivery times, do make sure that you lock all the doors on your van whilst delivering a parcel either to someone’s home or business premises.

Watch out for someone walking out into the road unexpectedly who has perhaps had one too many pints to drink at lunchtime as, if you were unfortunate enough to knock him or her over, this potentially presents itself with all sorts of problems for you.

Do try to take some quality time off from your courier service business over the festive period to spend with family and friends.