Transportation and material-moving workers experienced 1,523 fatal work injuries in 2021.
That’s a record high for the group, which also represented the occupation with the highest number of fatalities that year. And in construction, dangers apply to more than open road vehicles.
Accidents can involve heavy machinery and equipment, too. Anything from cars and trucks to cement mixers and excavators pose a risk.
Just one accident could affect the future of your employees, others on the road, and your business.
That’s why safe driving should be a top priority. Here are a few tips and reminders to keep your team safe on the road.
1. Be Proactive Today To Avoid Incidents Down The Road
One of the best ways to help ensure your employees are responsible drivers—no matter what type of vehicle they’re handling—is identifying their qualifications. As an employer, it’s your responsibility to stay aware of potential risks, especially ones that could lead to serious injury.
If you don’t, you could face accusations of negligent entrustment. This can occur if an employee or third-party individual causes injury or damage with a vehicle you gave them access to. You could be held responsible if you knew—or should have known—that they may have a higher likelihood of causing an incident.
Before letting an employee behind the wheel of company vehicles, review background checks and Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs). This can help paint a clearer picture of past accidents and safe driving habits. It’s also important to periodically check the MVRs of your current employees.
Here are some other steps to consider:
- Keep documentation of policies and procedures, driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, and driver training logs.
- Work with a legal expert to make sure your hiring processes comply with state and federal laws.
- Require your candidates to complete a driving test or ride-along with a current employee.
2. Have An Effective Safety Program In Place
A big part of being proactive is setting clear expectations for your drivers. You can do this by implementing a formal safety program and leading by example. Remember: you and other leaders set the tone by demonstrating safe behaviors.
If you don’t have one already, create a formal safe driving policy. Each driver at your business should read and sign a statement acknowledging their commitment. It shows employees that safe driving is important to your business—and in turn—their role.
Your policy should address a few key topics:
- Driver qualifications, requirements, and responsibilities
- Permissive users of your vehicles
- Distracted driving and mobile device guidelines
- Safe driving best practices
- Drug and alcohol policies
- Accident reporting procedures
- Disciplinary actions
3. Limit Distractions
In recent years, distracted driving has become a major cause of accidents—and the problem is only getting worse.
Drivers were 30 percent more distracted in February 2022 than they were two years prior, according to Cambridge Mobile Telematics.
Drivers can be sidetracked by a number of objects and activities, including:
- Cellphones
- Food and drinks
- Vehicle controls
- Talking on the phone or to other passengers
- Looking away from the road
Distractions are a serious risk to your employees and business. Drivers who are the most distracted are two times more likely to crash, according to Cambridge.
That’s why it’s vital to have policies in place that establish clear guidelines for drivers. I’ve seen several businesses create a separate no cell phone use policy to underscore the importance.
You want to make it clear to employees that driving comes first. Calls and texts come second.
Again, it’s important to lead by example. Avoid calling or texting your employees when you know they’re on the road.
More recently, many contractors have started using telematics to help address distracted driving. It can provide deeper insight into potential distractions and unsafe driving behaviors. That information can then help you tailor your coaching efforts.
4. Invest In The Right Insurance Coverage
Safe driving and accident prevention will always remain the top priority. Still, driving vehicles and operating equipment comes with risk. And others on the road might not share the same commitment to safety as your business.
When an accident occurs, insurance is one of the few ways you can financially protect your construction business.
You’ll find there are several business auto coverages to consider—and finding the right fit can vary based on your business. I typically recommend commercial auto liability and physical damage insurance. That way, you have coverage for damages to your vehicles and potential liability in cases of an accident. As always, it’s best to talk with your agent for a plan specific to your business.
Remember, safe driving is about protecting your employees and those on the road. When you make a commitment to hiring safe drivers, you help make the road a better place.
