The Value of a Fleet Safety Program 

Accidents involving fleet vehicles are some of the costliest injury claims for a business. On average, the cost of a loss regarding a vehicle accident is about $70,000 — twice as much as the cost of the average workplace injury. 

With no designated fleet safety program in place, you may be putting the interest of your employees and business at risk. Even having a blanket safety program is better than not having one at all. However, having a program designed with your company and fleet in mind is far more effective. 

The purpose of a fleet safety program is to establish the policies and procedures needed to ensure a safe work setting for employees. It can also help protect your business from liability in the case of a vehicle accident.  

There is no way to guarantee that an accident will not occur. In reality, being on the road is one of the most dangerous places for your employees. One way to reduce the severity and frequency of a loss occurring is by instituting a formal and continuing safety program.

A safety program involves screening, testing, inspection, and training. With such a program in place, the organization manages each aspect of concern which helps to protect everyone involved.  

There are several other benefits to a company that implements a formal fleet safety plan, including improved safety, employee satisfaction, and the potential to improve fleet efficiency. 

8 Essential Elements of a Fleet Safety Program 

An effective fleet safety program must be extensive, current, and established as a part of your company’s safety culture. It should be thorough, ensuring each employee that gets behind the wheel is well-versed. And the commitment must start at the top. 

Identifying every driver.

Some businesses may not be fully aware of the extent of their non-owned vehicle exposure. Everyone who drives on behalf of the business should be identified. Even drivers who use personal or rented vehicles should be identified and recorded by the company. 

Commitment from the management team.

Having the leaders within the company show support of program implementation and upholding can ensure program success.  

Being comprehensive and selective when hiring drivers.

Being thorough in hiring will ensure you establish a reliable team that prioritizes safety. Without safe drivers, no business is likely to have a long-term safety record.

Having proper driver training.

A quality training program for drivers can help make sure all drivers understand vehicle safety policies and procedures. All drivers should readily be able to easily access information regarding safe driving strategies, including training in defensive driving. 

Overseeing drivers continuously.

Having oversight on drivers is imperative in helping to ensure that drivers are following the fleet safety rules and maintaining safe driving while on the job.  

Handling accidents as they occur.

An accident reporting structure can assist in mitigating accident costs and understanding your exposures, which can lower the risk of potential future losses. 

Clearly outlining written policies and procedures.

Clear policies and procedures set consistent expectations for all employees. 

Establishing a plan for vehicle inspection, repair, and maintenance.

A vehicle maintenance plan can help lower the risk of expensive and unexpected breakdowns and help avoid accidents due to faulty equipment.  

Here at Bryson, we can use our extensive knowledge and experience to assist our customers in designing their fleet safety program to protect them better, their employees, and their businesses. Reach out today to find out more.