Virtual Dispatch

Summer nights and nighttime deliveries go hand in hand. After a long hot day running in the sun, it’s nice to have that nighttime cool down.

Moving into the rush times, as the evening begins, is a hectic and sometimes stressful time for couriers. Traffic, and offers, and every detail that needs to be monitored, are all happening at the same time. Then from out of nowhere, come those flashing emergency lights!

It could be the red or the blue, or even a set of yellow flashing lights. They are most often accompanied by a siren sound. This is mentioned because the siren sound was once effective at alerting the presence of emergency personel.

Due to traffic noise and the increased quality of newer vehicles (very quiet ride with windows up) and other factors, that siren sound isn’t always the most effective tool. That’s where the flashing lights are very effective, especially at night.

On those starlit nights when there are less traffic concerns, and there are no sound cancelling effects from traffic noise, it’s important to practice staying alert. Those flashing lights can pop up anywhere at anytime, knowing in advance gives the best possible chance for the courier, to properly yield the right of way, to the emergency vehicle

Those flashing lights can be disorienting at times. Especially on starlit nights. And it’s good to remember the ones who are operating those emergency vehicles. They have a job to do, and getting to it quickly, is a super important part of the job.

As the summer season opens up to full tilt, the roads will become more and more active. Staying alert and maintaining focus is a couriers first advantage to a productive series of runs.

Being present in the moment, and consistent observation of the road, and surrounding circumstances, keeps safety front and center and the courier on the favorable side of those flashing lights.

Sidehustle