Road safety matters to everyone, and driving is a normal part of working life for many employees – especially those who drive as part of their job. Company drivers travel to carry out their work duties, and how safely they drive affects their own safety, the safety of other road users and also the reputation of their employer. Although it is a daily routine, it can also be dangerous if the right safety practices are not followed. Whether you are a courier, a construction worker, a sales representative or a manager travelling to meetings, road safety should be your number one priority. Many drivers take driving for granted and do not take it seriously.
A few statistics
It is common knowledge that the accident rate is highest in the summer months. Every year, the summer holidays see an increase in road accidents compared with other periods, and this trend has continued for several years. On the other hand, the lowest numbers of road accidents are recorded at the beginning of the year, from February to April. The main cause of road accidents in general is driver negligence, especially inattention, which in most cases is caused by today’s mobile phones. However, negligence is usually associated with less serious accidents that are not fatal. When it comes to tragic cases involving deaths, the cause often lies elsewhere. Drivers often fail to assess the road conditions correctly and adapt their driving. Microsleep is also a major risk, as it can lead to drifting out of lane into oncoming traffic.
Statistics suggest that around 30% to 40% of all road accidents are related to work. These figures include both accidents during working hours and accidents on the way to and from work. This underlines the importance of safe driving among employees.
Tips for drivers:
Route planning
Before you set off, plan your route carefully. Take into account traffic conditions, the state of the roads and the weather forecast. Choosing the optimal route can reduce the risk of an accident and save time. You can avoid rush hours and potential obstacles, and the stress of running late. You can use smart apps such as Google Maps or Waze to plan your route.
Regular vehicle maintenance
The condition of the vehicle is crucial and must be maintained regularly. If you regularly drive a different vehicle, always do a quick check before setting off. Check the tyres (pressure), brakes (brake fluid), oil level, lights, mandatory equipment, green card and other important parts of the vehicle depending on the nature of your journey. Such a simple check can save you time and eliminate potential problems on the road.
Following the rules
The cornerstone of safe driving is undoubtedly following the traffic rules. Do not give in to the temptation to speed when driving a company car, do not ignore road signs, and be considerate to other drivers.
Unforeseen events
Unforeseen events can happen on the road. Be prepared for a breakdown, an accident or a change in the weather. Keep emergency equipment in the car, including a fire extinguisher if possible, and always remember that safety is more important than your destination. You never know what might happen, so be prepared for the worst situations, including having to give first aid or put out a fire.
Breaks
If you have a long journey ahead, take regular breaks. It is generally recommended to stop at least every two hours to stretch, go to the toilet and rest. This should help you stay focused and react quickly while driving.
Communication and information
If you are part of a team of drivers, stay in touch with the others. Share information about road conditions, accidents or other potential hazards to help others avoid problems. If you run into any problems during your drive related to the vehicle, tiredness or a difficult journey, be sure to report them to your employer or manager.
Tips for employers:
Training
Company driver training is key to ensuring safe behaviour on the road. Employers should give their employees the opportunity to take part in various types of training covering the whole range from basic driving skills to advanced defensive driving techniques. Such training can also include information on giving first aid and what to do in the event of an accident.
A safe driving policy
Create and enforce a clear policy on safe behaviour on the road. Include rules on speed, the use of mobile phones at the wheel and the obligation to wear seat belts.
Choosing drivers
When selecting drivers, it is essential to check their driving records carefully. Employers should give preference to candidates with clean records who have shown they can drive safely and responsibly.
Vehicle condition
Keep all company vehicles in good condition through regular checks and maintenance. Check the tyres, brakes, lights and other key parts of the vehicle.
Rest periods
Employers should make sure that drivers get enough rest between shifts. This means respecting the limits on maximum working time and minimum rest periods. It is also important to check that drivers follow the traffic rules and take the required safety breaks.
Feedback
Give employees feedback on their driving style and behaviour on the road. This can help identify areas for improvement and provide specific recommendations for safer driving.
Introducing tracking systems
A vehicle tracking system can help monitor driver behaviour and identify risky behaviour such as speeding or aggressive driving.
Employees who drive company vehicles are responsible for driving safely and efficiently. Following these safety tips can not only protect you and your passengers, but also contribute to the safety of all road users. Set an example for other drivers and always remember that safety comes first.
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Published: 02/2024
