"FOREWORD Company reputation like character takes years to build@ yet moments may destroy it. One accident-giving a pedestrian a ""close shave"" -forcing another car into the curb-or jamming on brakes to avoid a collision-often undoes patient and thoughtful efforts of an organization to win public confidence and support. Insurance pays claims@ but does not compensate for bad impressions upon the public made by an indifferent act of a company driver. Every oil company representative is a public relations man for the firm he serves and consequently should do his part in building up a good sound highway morale; in working for a partnership in accident prevention based on standard practices and good sportsmanship; in creating a mutual understanding that every driver will be considerate of the rights of others as he travels the streets and highways and less considerate of his own. The instructions in this Manual are for all drivers of company-owned automobiles and for those driving in the interest of company business. Every driver should realize that he is a salesman of company reputation regardless of his official position. Every company driver should be thoroughly familiar with State and City traffic regulations in his area. These suggested practices are not intended to conflict in any way with local regulations. This Manual should not be confused with federal@ state or insurance requirements; however@ it is in general accord with the intent and spirit of such regulations. This Manual on Safe Driving of Automobiles was prepared by the Committee on Accident Prevention in Marketing and has been approved by the General Committee@ Division of Marketing@ American Petroleum Institute"