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Key Elements to Driver Safety

by admin on 2-1-2012 • Tags: Caldwell leasing, fleet management & maintenance company, Safe driving, vehicle & truck fleet leasing

You may be interested to learn that the federal government has issued some startling U.S. crash statistics:

 

 

  • One in 15 average Americans will be in involved in a motor vehicle crash over the next year.
  • One in 45 average Americans will be involved in an injury-producing crash over the next year.
  • One in 65 average Americans will be involved in a fatality producing crash during their driving lifetime.

 

The risk associated with driving has some alarming statistics.  For those that drive as part of their job functions, the risk is even greater for vehicle crashes.  Their exposure is greater.  This information may be helpful backing when presenting and trying to implement a driver safety program within your organization. 

 

Some key elements to protecting your fleet of drivers have been identified.  Consider incorporating them into your corporate safety plan. 

 

  • Counsel new drivers – When a new driver is added to your fleet, make sure the corporate fleet driving expectations are well-defined, including your safety plan.  If the driver habit is started in a way that follows your safety plan, bad driving habits can be avoided.
  • Check driver records – It is important to be aware, and continue to stay aware, of how your drivers are performing on the road.  Regular checks and accountability will help ensure better performance.
  • What is the driver risk level – Typically, those that have poor driving records are the ones that cause many of the crashes.  Continuing to stay on top of driver records and require training will help move those drivers to a safe zone.
  • Train before and after incidents – While training prior to any incidents is important, it is equally important to review a situation after it happens and train on how it could have been avoided.
  • Management to set an example – It will be easier for drivers to implement the safe driving techniques if the management is practicing the same techniques. 
  • Driver behavior – It may be challenging to change driver behavior that began when they first sat behind the wheel at the age of 16.  Consistent training and motivation will help drivers learn new, safe behaviors.
  • Organization communication – Practice open communication with your fleet of drivers to reduce stress.  Stress can lead to distracted driving.
  • Maintain safe driving training – Your fleet safe driving training should be an on-going part of your department.  Review, update and educate should be part of your program.

 

Make the time to train.  With on-going training you will be rewarded with a fleet that has less downtime, therefore, having a greater return on your investment.  When a fleet has drivers that are unable to drive or vehicles that are out of commission due to an accident, your bottom line suffers.  A fleet is only as productive as what it can accomplish.  Look to your fleet management and maintenance partner for great programs on fleet safety and start fresh with a safe, productive fleet.     

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