How’s My Driving? - Safe Driving Blog Tips
As fleet managers, ensuring the health and well-being of your drivers is not just a moral obligation but a legal responsibility. Driver health directly impacts their fitness to drive, making it an essential aspect of your duty of care as a fleet operator. Let's delve into the key considerations and strategies for managing driver health effectively.
Getting enough rest
Fatigue is a leading cause of collisions on the road, accounting for one in five crashes. Shockingly, many adults in the UK admit to sleeping for only four to five hours a night, which can impair performance to a level equivalent to being intoxicated.
Under the influence
According to the Department of Transport's official statistics for 2021, drugs were detected in 20% of all deceased drivers, compared to 11% in 2014. Additionally, 34% of drivers for which toxicology information was available tested positive for drugs, highlighting the growing concern of drug-impaired driving.
Mental health
In the UK, mental health issues pose a significant challenge, with one man taking his life every two hours. Untreated mental health conditions, such as depression, can impair judgment and decision-making, posing dangers on the road. Poor mental and emotional well-being is linked to conditions like insomnia, further exacerbating road risk.
Practical strategies you can implement
- - Rest: Encourage drivers to prioritise sleep and rest breaks to combat fatigue. Implement scheduling practices that allow for sufficient downtime between shifts.
- - Adhere to strict policies: Establish clear policies and procedures for drug testing, including random screenings and post-incident testing. Provide education on the dangers of drug-impaired driving and the importance of staying drug-free.
- - Provide all types of support: Offer access to confidential counselling services and mental health resources for drivers. Create a supportive environment where drivers feel comfortable seeking help for mental health concerns.
- - Help them to help themselves: Education around nutrition, exercise, and stress management to promote overall well-being among drivers. Encourage healthy lifestyle choices to improve physical and mental health.
Prioritise driver well-being
At How's My Driving, we understand the critical importance of managing driver health to ensure safe and efficient operations. Explore our blogs for more insights on fleet management and road safety, and join us in our commitment to prioritising driver well-being on the road. Together, we can create a safer and healthier driving environment for all.