In the UK, someone is seriously or fatally injured in a road accident every 22 minutes, a statistic that puts the spotlight on the risk fleet drivers face daily as they spend a significant amount of time on the road. Factors like weather conditions, the behaviour of other motorists, and fatigue can cause accidents, leading to delays, injuries, and death. We’ve highlighted the dangers and challenges fleet drivers face and how you can support your team as a fleet manager.
Severe weather conditions
Weather conditions like rain, snow and wind make it difficult for fleet drivers to travel safely to their destinations and can delay their journeys. When the roads are wet, drivers need to keep a safe following distance and drive at slower speeds, and strong winds can cause branches to fall and block roads, causing accidents. A gust of wind could even cause a vehicle to veer into the wrong lane. While bad weather makes it difficult for fleet drivers to arrive on time, it also puts their lives at risk as accidents can lead to fatal injuries.
Behaviour of other motorists on the road
When other motorists drive recklessly, it poses a threat to the safety of fleet drivers. Reckless driving includes speeding, disobeying traffic laws, overtaking on blind bends, and driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The most common driving offence in the UK is speeding, with 46% of drivers exceeding the speed limit on the motorways. Reckless driving can cause severe accidents involving pedestrians and other motorists. While fleet drivers can’t control the behaviour of other motorists on the road, they can improve their driving skills to prevent accidents.
Lack of training
Proper training can help fleet drivers develop good driving habits and prevent unnecessary accidents. If fleet drivers don’t receive training, they may develop poor driving habits and be ill-equipped when there’s an emergency. Fleet driver training should include first aid, how to do vehicle safety checks, fatigue management, and defensive driver training. Defensive driving can improve a driver’s decision-making skills, help them identify hazards and anticipate dangerous situations, and reduce the risk of being involved in an accident.
Feeling tired behind the wheel
Up to 20% of accidents on UK roads are caused by driver fatigue. Fleet drivers spend hours behind the wheel, increasing fatigue and their chances of being involved in an accident. When a driver is tired, their reaction time is slower, and they can’t stop quickly enough if someone suddenly brakes in front of them. Fatigue can also cause blurry vision, preventing drivers from seeing the road. While fatigue can be dangerous, it’s difficult for fleet drivers to take breaks when they’re tired if they’re following a schedule and time is limited.
Using technology to support your team
There are several ways you can use technology to support your team. You can invest in dashboard cameras to record your team’s journeys. If there’s an accident, you’ll have video evidence for insurance claims. You can also use video footage to review your team’s driving skills and provide training if required. Fleet Tracking Software can also be used to improve driver behaviour. You can monitor your team’s speed, acceleration, braking and idle time and introduce incentives for drivers to improve their behaviour on the road. Fleet Tracking Software makes it easier for fleet managers to support drivers in the field as they can view everyone’s real-time location. If there’s an emergency and a driver needs assistance, you can send help immediately.