Preparing Fleet Drivers for Roadside Emergencies

While fleet companies take every step that they can to minimize the risks of road accidents, drivers may still come across emergency situations once a while. The level of training given to their drivers by fleet companies will determine how well they respond to those emergencies. Therefore, it’s important for both fleet managers and drivers to have a good knowledge of the various types of emergencies they may come across — and how to cope with them.  

How Fleet Companies Can Prepare Drivers for Emergencies

• Understand Driver Behavior

If fleet managers want to reduce these incidents, they first have to understand the driver behaviors that can lead to emergencies. For example, one common cause of emergencies is drivers losing focus while driving. If a driver doesn’t concentrate fully while driving, such as taking their eyes off the road, that’s risky behavior. Any such behavior should be discouraged by fleet managers. This lack of attention can occur when drivers use their phones or look at maps while driving.

Secondly, eating also makes the list of dangerous habits that can cause emergencies. In addition, when exhausted drivers don’t get enough rest after driving for long hours, they compromise their own safety and that of their vehicles. Tired drivers may doze off at any point when they are driving. Before they realize what’s going on, the emergency has already occurred. 

• Checking Drivers Health

The health of fleet drivers also matters significantly when it comes to driving, and consequently how they respond to emergencies. Apart from obtaining the requisite commercial driver’s license, fleet drivers also need to be physically and medically fit. Companies may want to organize routine medical examinations to ensure that the health of their drivers is in good shape.

When drivers are physically active, it increases their alertness on the road. They will be better able to handle emergency situations.

• Provide Necessary Emergency Tools

It’s the responsibility of fleet companies to see that its drivers are equipped with all the necessary documents and tools they need in emergencies. Examples of these tools include safety triangles, communication devices, and spare tires. 

• Offer Training for Drivers

It’s a big mistake for fleet managers to think that their drivers are already experienced enough, and don’t need further training. As far as safety is concerned, drivers of all levels need to receive regular training and advice on collision avoidance. To improve their abilities to respond smartly to emergency matters, companies need to use post-collision documents to train their drivers. 

These documents can help you assess collision situations and the driver’s response to the emergency. When you offer classroom training on collision avoidance, drivers will learn the dos and don’ts of avoiding collisions. They will learn from their mistakes and be well prepared to face such real-life emergency scenarios.

In summary, the safety of an organizational fleet depends on the skills of its drivers and the training they receive from management. Fleet managers need to resource drivers with all essential safety materials and instructions. Drivers need to stay alert and avoid the bad habits that often give rise to emergencies.