Company drivers face numerous risks on the road, making transportation incidents a leading cause of work-related fatalities in the United States, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report. Moreover, the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety’s recent data indicates that U.S. traffic crashes cost employers over $72 billion annually. These statistics highlight the significant safety and financial liabilities that drivers can pose to a company.
Given these risks, it is crucial for businesses to take proactive steps to ensure their employees drive safely. Doing so not only helps prevent injuries and property damage but also reduces the risk of liability claims and enhances the company’s public image by demonstrating a commitment to road safety. This article explores measures businesses can take to promote safer driving practices among their employees.
Tips for Creating Safer Drivers
Businesses can adopt several strategies to create safer drivers:
1. Assess Risks Every company has unique risks based on its size, location, and industry. Regular risk assessments help businesses identify their specific exposures related to motor vehicles.
2. Identify Company Drivers Company drivers include those hired primarily to drive as well as employees who operate vehicles, including rental and personal vehicles, on behalf of the business.
3. Maintain Written Policies Establishing clear, understandable, and enforceable motor vehicle safety policies is vital. These policies should be regularly communicated and cover topics such as driver eligibility, safety expectations (e.g., zero tolerance for impaired driving), disciplinary procedures, seat belt use requirements, and prohibitions on distracted driving (e.g., cell phone use, eating, and checking email).
4. Vet Drivers Conduct background checks and evaluate motor vehicle records before hiring drivers. Verify work histories and certifications, and ensure that prospective drivers pass written and road tests before driving for the company.
5. Train Drivers Provide comprehensive training on safe motor vehicle operation. Training topics should include defensive driving, proper use of safety features, weather monitoring, trip planning, and accident response. This training should occur upon hire and continue regularly throughout drivers’ careers.
6. Promote Healthy, Restful Lifestyles Good health is crucial for safe driving. Educate drivers on how physical and mental health conditions can affect driving performance. Provide resources to address health issues and encourage healthy eating habits. Establish policies for scheduling, driving hours, and rest standards to manage fatigue. Encourage drivers to visit a doctor if experiencing fatigue or sleep disorders.
7. Monitor Drivers Implement systems to review driver performance. Review all accidents, incidents, and roadside inspection reports. Periodically ride along with drivers to assess their habits. Use technology such as telematics and dashcams to monitor performance. Have procedures in place to address and remove unsafe drivers from the road.
8. Maintain Vehicles Ensure vehicles are properly maintained. Conduct regular inspections by certified mechanics and address safety issues immediately to reduce risks.
9. Provide Incentives Offer incentives for safe driving to encourage adherence to safety guidelines. Bonuses, additional paid time off, and public recognition can serve as positive reinforcement.
10. Ensure Companywide Buy-In Involve all levels of the organization to ensure the program’s success. Senior managers should demonstrate their commitment to safe driving by providing adequate resources, setting a good example, and regularly communicating safety expectations.
Conclusion
Employers have a duty to ensure safe working conditions for their employees, and fostering safe driving practices is essential to this objective. Implementing measures to promote a culture of safe driving not only helps prevent injuries and fatalities but also mitigates potential liabilities for the business.
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