Austin, TX, Letter Carrier Salvador Villaseňor Jr. has driven 2 million miles without an accident, becoming one of the few Postal Service employees to achieve such a feat this year.
Villaseňor received the recognition from the National Safety Council, which also honors USPS employees who drive 1 million accident-free miles, a more common achievement.
“You always have to watch out for the other drivers and expect that they may not always drive safely,” he said.
Villaseňor began his postal career in 1975 as a letter carrier in Sierra Madre, CA. He currently delivers on a route in one of Austin’s busiest traffic areas.
Villaseňor’s commitment to safe driving goes beyond the USPS. He previously owned a driving school and taught defensive driving courses in his off-duty hours.
San Antonio Postmaster Robert Carr recently presented the award to Villaseňor on behalf of Rio Grande District Manager Mary Sullivan at the station where Villaseňor works.
What advice does he have for his fellow drivers?
“Don’t rush. Always give yourself enough time,” Villaseňor said.
And one more thing: “Stay off your cellphone.”