ANAHEIM, CA —In a world of constant driver distractions Anaheim Tractor Trailer Operator Joe Sanchez maintained his focus on safety on the road over the course of his 30 years of Postal Service.
This focus on safety earned him entry into the Million Mile club and the proud recipient of the prestigious National Safety Council Million Mile Award.
The Million Mile Award is a lifetime enrollment, awarded to letter carriers, rural carriers and truck drivers, who have a safe attitude that entails driving for one million miles or 30 years without a preventable incident. They receive a plaque which bears the Million Mile Club emblem, the NSC logo and an engraved personalized nameplate.
The secret to staying accident-free starts with having the right mindset, “Safety means everything. I advise drivers to always pay attention and expect the unexpected. Drive defensively and if you feel tired stop and rest,” said Sanchez.
To add perspective, the moon is 238,900 miles from planet earth. Driving one million miles is the equivalent of doing that journey more than four times, all without a moving violation or accident, while maneuvering hazardous road conditions, gridlock, rural terrain, and avoiding careless drivers along the way.
Sanchez added that what he takes pride in most is keeping his community safe, “Receiving this award is an honor, and I appreciate it, but I would still feel good without an award knowing I accomplished safe driving during my career.”
“Our postal drivers take safety very seriously,” said Anaheim Manager of Transportation and Logistics Hussam Aldalati, “this truly remarkable achievement demonstrates how postal employees continue to deliver on the promise of delivering their best every day with care, courtesy and concern for the safety of others.”
Safe Driving Habits Start with Good Training
Driving for Postal Service is a privilege. All drivers must demonstrate safe-driving practices throughout their careers. Behind-the-wheel job candidates undergo rigorous screening, training, and certification process to earn credentials to operate a right-hand drive postal vehicle.
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