Fleet Drivers ‘More at Risk on the Roads’

The risks of serious car accidents are higher for fleet drivers than other motorists, according to new research by DriveTech, part of the AA.

According to the firm, fleet drivers have reported that they are under pressure to adhere to schedules, which is the main reason they take risks.

At-work drivers more likely to make errors

DriveTech found that motorists driving for work – known as at-work drivers – were 48% more likely to drive while fatigued. It also found that these drivers were 40% more likely to both tailgate and commit undertaking errors.

At-work drivers were also found to be 25% more likely to make junction errors and 15% more likely to drive while distracted.

In 2018, driver error or reaction was responsible for the majority of fatal accidents on the roads, according to the Department for Transport (DfT). A total of 915 people lost their lives as a result of actions including failing to look properly and losing control of vehicles.

The DfT found that 520 people were killed while in a vehicle for work in 2018. In total, 1,782 people died on UK roads last year, while 25,484 people were seriously injured.

Driver training necessary

DriveTech head of marketing Colin Paterson said: “Despite statistics demonstrating increased risks for fleet and at work drivers, less than one quarter of companies have regular training for their drivers.

“At-work drivers are far less likely to be involved in a collision caused by substance impairment or speeding than other motorists, however, they are far more likely to engage in other types of risky driving behaviour than individual motorists.”

His firm explained that a short lapse in concentration caused by fatigue or distraction is all it takes for what may seem like a small risk to end up in a fatal accident. DriveTech said that by enhancing their approach to driver risk management – including by giving drivers more training – companies could reduce accident rates by up to 35%.

Companies lacking in awareness

DriveTech reported that some 71% of companies in the UK don’t provide regular training for their drivers. Meanwhile, 46% of fleet managers and company drivers were unaware of what legally constitutes dangerous driving and 50% did not know the penalty for this offence.

A further 39% of companies don’t have the necessary systems or procedures in place to manage driver fatigue, while almost one quarter reported that they are not fully aware of their exact requirements for managing road risk.

If you’ve had a road traffic accident – whether driving for work or not – that wasn’t your fault, you could be entitled to compensation. To find out more, get in touch with First4Lawyers by giving us a call, requesting a call back or starting your claim online.