When you think of a commercial driver retention strategy, what comes to mind? If you’re like most, driver safety technology is low on the list – if it comes to mind at all. Don’t underestimate the power of these platforms! Driver safety solutions offer a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond proactive fleet management. In fact, when leveraged correctly, they can be invaluable tools for driver retention. Here’s how.
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The Secret Tools of Successful Fleets
The day-to-day life of a fleet driver varies dramatically across industries and vehicle types. However, fleets of all kinds benefit from these three techniques.
Continuous MVR Monitoring
Did you know that failing to signal a lane change can increase the probability of a future claim by 112.8%? Surprisingly, it’s the small stuff that can have the biggest impact on driver safety. You don’t want to be in the dark when a driver receives a violation of any kind, even those that feel frivolous.
Source: SambaSafety Crash Prediction Study
Companies that rely on infrequent MVR checks leave much up to chance. A lot can happen in a short amount of time, and without their finger on the pulse, fleet managers could be in for a nasty shock when confronted with a driver’s less-than-ideal record.
Continuous MVR monitoring provides much-needed visibility and peace of mind, offering ongoing insights into driving behavior across their fleet. If a driver receives a violation of any kind anywhere, their organization will be alerted ASAP.
Telematics Monitoring
Not every violation will be reported or even observed by law enforcement, so it’s critical to have insight into your driver’s day-to-day behavior. Everyday occurrences like cell phone use, smoking and harsh braking are also dangerous and can lead to crashes and claims. Telematics devices close that visibility gap, providing a fuller picture of an individual’s complete risk profile and driving habits.
Targeted Training Assignments
So, one of your drivers received a violation or is flagged for poor driving behavior. What’s next? To address the issue at hand and prevent a pattern before it starts, swift intervention is essential. Fleet managers juggle a lot of competing priorities, though, and assigning supplemental training can fall by the wayside.
Automated, targeted training addresses the root of the issue in a timely fashion. If a driver is pulled over for tailgating, for instance, they’ll automatically be enrolled in a course emphasizing the importance of proper space management. Not only does this increase driver skill in critical areas, but it also gives busy fleet managers insight into where they should (and shouldn’t) focus their efforts.
Impact on Driver Retention
What does any of this have to do with driver retention? More than you’d think.
Keep Drivers Qualified
A driver retention strategy is pointless if your drivers’ credentials aren’t in good standing. When you take a proactive approach through continuous MVR monitoring, telematics monitoring and targeted training, you’ll prevent bad habits before they start and ensure your existing drivers remain in compliance with state and federal regulations.
Improve Morale
No one likes to be micromanaged, but employees don’t appreciate being left in the dark, either. Setting and enforcing clear safety guidelines has a direct impact on employee morale. A 2022 Gallup study revealed that employee engagement is on the decline, with respondents citing a lack of clarity around expectations as a leading cause of workplace frustration. Continuous monitoring and targeted training efforts provide obvious parameters for fleet drivers, eliminating confusion about whether they are – aren’t – performing well in their role.
Demonstrate Ongoing Commitment to Safety
Continuous monitoring and targeted training will also reinforce your existing safety culture and policies. By keeping an eye on driving behavior, your organization will prove that its unique safety strategy is more than just lip service. Your policies are well thought out, are taken seriously and are worth ongoing attention and investment.
Accentuate the Positive
Those who are unfamiliar with continuous monitoring and targeted training interventions often see them as punitive measures. In reality, though, all these systems do is establish patterns – both negative and positive. Sure, a continuous monitoring solution will identify your riskiest drivers, but it will also shine a light on your highest performers. Those who maintain clean records and continue to demonstrate safe driving behavior are prime candidates for company-wide recognition. Don’t let good work go unnoticed! Rewarding excellence will encourage drivers to stick around.
Performance insights are valuable at the company level, too. Where are you seeing improvement across the board? Is there a specific violation type that’s decreasing? Which month saw the biggest decline in violations? Is there a certain business unit that’s setting the bar? These little victories are worth sharing and celebrating.
Discover More Technology Tips
By leveraging the right technology, fleet managers can proactively identify and address potential risks, implement targeted training programs and foster a culture of safety that attracts and retains safety-minded drivers. Over time, these efforts are sure to have a positive effect on your bottom line and company reputation alike.
Download our guide below to explore additional ways technology can transform your driver safety and retention strategies.
