These are challenging times for logistics companies. Current events and uncertainty about what the future will bring are things that no haulage company can control. However, there is a persistent challenge that logistics operators do have the ability to control, and that is improving the safety of their fleet.

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Improving the safety of your fleet requires a two-pronged approach. Firstly, there is the safety of the vehicles in your fleet to consider. The second factor that heavily impacts on safety is the actions of your drivers. Each of these factors needs to be addressed if significant safety improvements are to be made.

In 2018, government figures showed that 4,753 accidents occurred on UK roads involving HGVs, and of those accidents, 1,215 were reported to be serious or fatal. These figures highlight the need for safety improvements, but how can safety improvements be made?  The freight industry is already heavily regulated, but taking additional steps to develop even greater safety on the roads is vital for the future of your business, as well as ensuring that both your drivers and other road users stay safe. 

From a financial point of view, even non-serious accidents can be costly to your business, leading to you dealing with a truck accident lawyer and legal expenses. Here are some ways to improve safety throughout your fleet:

Introduce Technology

In-vehicle technology is advancing at a rapid rate. There are now many options available to freight managers looking to technology to enhance the safety of their operation. Installing driver vision cameras that enable drivers to see all around the vehicle can be especially helpful to prevent accidents occurring. While introducing onboard cameras that record incidents serve two main benefits. Firstly, they provide you with footage to use to establish the exact details of incidents when they occur. Secondly, they enable you to notice any driver training issues that need to be addressed that could impact safety.

Driver-assist technology is an incredibly useful tool in helping to improve the safety of your fleet.

Continued Driver Training

Although your drivers will have already have their required licenses to perform their job legally, there is still the opportunity to improve their skills beyond gaining their HGV license. Ongoing training brings many advantages to both your company and your drivers themselves. With additional training, your drivers will be able to keep their knowledge up to date and refresh their skills regularly. 

Increased Vehicle Checks

While driver error can be the cause of some accidents, this is certainly not always the case. Ensuring that your fleet is as safe as possible is vital in reducing the risk of accidents. In the period from 2013 and 2018, figures show that malfunctioning brake parts were a contributing factor in 3,894 accidents which resulted in casualties or fatalities. 

Encouraging drivers to perform walk-around checks before their journey, and carrying out regular vehicle maintenance is vital. Taking a proactive approach to safety is beneficial to your business, your employees, and other road users.

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About the Author: John Loughran