How to Improve Fleet Safety

By RAM Tracking on 19 Jan 2024

By Michael Hoyle, Head of Account Management, RAM Tracking   

Over the last year, there has been a considerable surge in instances of aggression and harassment directed at commercial fleet drivers, stemming from both opportunistic thieves and members of the public. This alarming trend indicates an escalation in the challenges faced by individuals responsible for operating commercial vehicles.

The elevated frequency of such incidents highlights the pressing need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to safeguard the well-being of these drivers as they navigate their professional responsibilities.

• To improve fleet safety, you must establish policies and procedures that contribute to developing a secure work environment for your employees.
• Beyond promoting workplace safety, such a program is key in shielding your company from potential liability in road incidents.

Safety strategies are designed to not only ease the likelihood of incidents but also to enhance the overall safety and preparedness of your fleet drivers. By proactively addressing potential hazards through safety solutions, you are taking a crucial step toward safeguarding your employees.

Dangers on the road

The rising threats faced by fleet drivers extend beyond opportunistic thieves. A concerning trend has emerged, marked by a noticeable uptick in aggression directed at fleet drivers who are carrying out their daily routines. This escalating hostility is alarming as it disrupts the ordinary operations of these professionals who play a vital role in their businesses. Some prominent dangers include:

• Traffic incidents: Fleet drivers are exposed to the risk of collisions with other vehicles, which can result from factors such as distracted driving, speeding, or impaired driving by other road users.
• Weather conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, ice, and fog, can significantly increase the likelihood of accidents. Reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces pose challenges for fleet drivers.
• Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing reaction times and decision-making abilities. Fatigue-related incidents are a significant concern for fleet safety.
• Road construction: Work zones and road construction areas introduce additional hazards, including narrow lanes, changing traffic patterns, and construction equipment that can impede the smooth flow of traffic.
• Mechanical failures: Vehicle breakdowns due to mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or worn tires, can lead to incidents and disruptions in the transportation process.

To address these concerns, it's essential to prioritise the safety and security of fleet drivers. Implementing targeted measures within comprehensive fleet safety technology can ease the risks your drivers may face on the road.

Safety solutions for fleets

Developing fleet safety is crucial for promoting a secure working environment, and it should be viewed as integral to the company's safety.

• Driver ID: Identifying all individuals who operate vehicles on behalf of the business, including those in a grey fleet environment gives fleet managers knowledge of who is responsible for vehicles.
• Background check: Careful screening and selection of drivers is essential when establishing a reliable and safe driving team.
• Driver training: Proactive training ensures a thorough understanding of vehicle safety policies and procedures. Access to information on safe driving strategies and techniques empowers drivers to navigate road challenges adeptly.
• Fleet management software: Ongoing management of drivers is important to the improvement of fleet safety. Regular oversight helps ensure that drivers adhere to established safety rules and maintain safe driving practices throughout their tenure.
• Dash cams: A study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that vehicles equipped with dash cameras experienced a 22% reduction in crash-for-cash incidents. Installing both internal and external dash cams ensures you’re constantly viewing the road alongside your drivers and no evidence is missed in an emergency.

In the unfortunate event of incidents, effective fleet management and reporting software is crucial for driver protection. This not only addresses immediate concerns but also works towards minimising the potential for future losses.

Conclusion

The recent surge in aggression and harassment directed at fleet drivers emphasises the importance of prioritising their safety and security. These professionals face a myriad of dangers on the road, ranging from:

• Traffic incidents.
• Bad weather conditions.
• Fatigue.
• Road construction hazards.
• Mechanical failures.

To address these challenges, a comprehensive fleet safety program is a necessity. Establishing policies and procedures contributes not only to a secure work environment but also shields companies from potential liabilities arising from road incidents.

It is essential to implement targeted safety measures, such as:

• Driver identification.
• Background checks.
• Driver training.
• Fleet management software.
• Dash cams.

These safety solutions play a crucial role in proactively managing and mitigating risks faced by fleet drivers.

• Driver ID ensures accountability, background checks aid in building a reliable driving team, and ongoing driver management is integral to sustained safety.
• Proactive training empowers drivers with the knowledge needed to navigate road challenges, and the use of dash cams enhances real-time monitoring and evidence collection.

When facing unforeseen incidents, effective fleet management and reporting software are perfect for driver protection. By leveraging these safety solutions, companies not only address immediate concerns but also work towards minimising potential future losses.

Investing in comprehensive fleet safety measures is not just a legal or regulatory requirement; it is a commitment to the well-being of the workforce and the sustained success of the business. Prioritising safety demonstrates a company's dedication to fostering a secure working environment and ensuring the resilience of its fleet operations in the face of evolving challenges on the road.