Driving Safely While on the Clock
Driving safely is essential for any employer that must transport goods to ease worries and complete their assignments smoothly. Work-related road accidents account for 25% of all vehicular mishaps every year. That comes to more than 5,000 incidents annually, about 50 of which result in fatalities.
Commercial auto insurance can help businesses manage the financial costs of these accidents. The funds from the policies can pay for losses and damage, as well as the medical expenses of injured victims.
Driving on the Clock
But insurance won’t prevent these incidents from occurring in the first place. They also won’t compensate for the loss of lives. It is therefore vital to take measures to avoid work-related driving accidents. Here are some suggestions that could help:
Inspect the Vehicle Beforehand
A thorough inspection should be standard procedure for any company-owned vehicle. It applies to the engine, brakes, transmission, and other crucial components. You should also check the brake, oil, and wiper fluids and ensure that the safety equipment is functioning correctly.
Address any Issues Immediately
The driver should address any issues with the vehicle, driver, cargo, or anything else that could compromise road safety as soon as they identify it. Drivers and mechanics should report these to management to take appropriate action.
Ensure that the Driver is Licensed
All drivers must operate with a driver’s license, which is especially important for company drivers. Driving a vehicle without a license can result in severe legal consequences for the driver. But if the driver works for your company, you could also be held liable.
You should also ensure that your drivers have the proper license for the vehicles they will be operating.
Plan the Trip Thoroughly
Drivers should plan all trips thoroughly before leaving the company premises. It applies to everything from quick deliveries and repair stops to longer trips lasting several days. Planning a trip helps ensure it goes according to schedule and prevents incidents that could result in injury or wasted fuel.
Be Aware of Weather Conditions
No driver should leave on a long trip without being aware of the weather forecast. If you have a dispatch manager, they will be responsible for checking weather conditions and monitoring them periodically throughout the trip. Knowing if rain or snow is forecast will help prevent accidents and allow for rescheduling or rerouting if necessary.
Instruct the Driver to take Periodic breaks
Periodic breaks shouldn’t just be allowed; they should be encouraged. Regular intervals are crucial for maintaining alertness and preventing fatigue. It also helps drivers maintain proper judgment, which is vital when driving long distances. Experts advise taking 15-minute breaks after two hours of driving.
Ensure Compliance with Traffic laws
Company drivers must obey all traffic laws to the letter, with no exceptions. It includes staying within the speed limit, wearing seatbelts, and refraining from using mobile phones while the vehicle is in motion. Compliance with traffic laws not only reduces the risk of accidents. It also helps drivers and business owners avoid steep fines and legal consequences.
Have Drivers Report issues to Management
Finally, instruct your drivers to report any issues affecting their driving, whether with the vehicle, law enforcement personnel, or road conditions. They should also inform you of any new or existing health concerns. It will enable you to take action and possibly prevent a severe accident.
Conclusion
Recent statistics reveal that workplace deaths from injuries are declining. Over 441,000 non-fatal injuries occurred in the United States from 2020 to 2021. A moving object caused many of these impacts.
Of course, fines occur for incidents involving moving vehicles or objects in workplaces. It indicates the urgency of safe work-related driving as it could affect other workers apart from the driver.
Employers should ensure their workers’ safety at all times. It applies to vehicle operation as part of the employee’s duties. The suggestions outlined above will hopefully help ensure safer practices on the road.
About Daniels Insurance, Inc.
At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.