July 9 to 15 is Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Operation Safe Driver Week 2023. Throughout the week, law enforcement personnel will be on the lookout for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers and passenger vehicle drivers engaging in risky driving. Identified unsafe drivers will be pulled over and issued a citation or warning. This initiative aims to make our roadways safer by targeting high-risk driving behaviors and reducing problematic driving habits.
For companies managing fleets, Operation Safe Driver Week holds immense importance in addressing key factors that contribute to crashes and establishing proactive strategies that will work to mitigate them year-round.
4 Key Factors Contributing to the Rise in Crashes
1. Speeding
Speeding has been a significant factor in more than a quarter of crash deaths since 2008. Both CMV drivers and passenger vehicle drivers contribute to this alarming statistic. Operation Safe Driver Week serves as a reminder for fleet managers to emphasize the importance of adhering to speed limits and avoiding reckless driving practices. By curbing speeding habits within their fleets, companies can significantly reduce the risk of crashes and protect the lives of drivers and other road users.
2. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving remains a grave concern, with 3,142 lives lost in 2019 due to this preventable behavior. During Operation Safe Driver Week, fleet managers have an opportunity to educate their drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and enforce strict policies and ongoing training to mitigate this risk. By discouraging the use of mobile devices and promoting attentive driving, companies can play a crucial role in reducing crashes caused by distractions and ensuring the safety of their fleet and the public.
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3. Seat Belt Usage
Shockingly, in 2019, 47% of the 22,215 passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts. By enforcing a strict seat belt policy and educating drivers about the lifesaving benefits of seat belts, companies can significantly reduce fatalities and injuries in the event of a crash. Seat belts are a simple yet effective tool for protecting drivers and passengers, and their usage should never be overlooked.
4. Drunk Driving
Drunk driving remains a persistent issue, claiming the lives of thousands of people each year. Every day, about 37 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes. Operation Safe Driver Week serves as a platform for fleet managers to reinforce a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence. By implementing strict protocols, conducting regular alcohol and drug testing and providing education on the dangers and consequences of drunk driving, companies can contribute to a safer road environment and protect their drivers from avoidable crashes.
4 Ways Companies Can Promote Safer Roadways This Week and Beyond
1. Maintain a Strong Driver Safety Culture
Operation Safe Driver Week is a catalyst for instilling a strong driver safety culture within companies managing fleets. By establishing a comprehensive driver safety policy and regularly communicating the importance of safe driving practices, companies can ensure drivers are adhering to speed limits, avoiding distracted driving, following hours-of-service regulations and much more. It encourages drivers to prioritize safety first, resulting in fewer crashes, reduced insurance costs and improved public perception of the company.
2. Enhance Driver Training Programs
Fleet managers must understand the importance of ongoing driver training and education. Operation Safe Driver Week provides an opportunity to review and enhance existing training programs. By focusing on specific areas highlighted during the event, companies can address potential vulnerabilities in their fleet’s safety protocols. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the likelihood of crashes and improve overall fleet safety.
Does Your Fleet’s Driver Training Program Cover These 3 Critical Topics?
3. Identify High-Risk Behaviors
Operation Safe Driver Week involves heightened enforcement of traffic laws, including targeted inspections and monitoring. Fleet managers can use this opportunity to identify and address high-risk behaviors exhibited by their drivers. Analyzing data from inspections and citations received during the week can shed light on recurring patterns or violations. This information enables fleet managers to implement targeted corrective measures, such as additional training, coaching or disciplinary actions, to mitigate potential risks associated with these behaviors.
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4. Assess Vehicle Maintenance
Safe and well-maintained vehicles are essential for any fleet operation. Operation Safe Driver Week emphasizes the importance of vehicle inspections and compliance with maintenance schedules. Companies can take advantage of this event to review their maintenance practices, ensuring that vehicles are in optimal condition and meet all safety requirements. Regular inspections not only reduce the risk of crashes but also contribute to prolonged vehicle lifespan and lower maintenance costs over time.
Ready to Take Part in Operation Safe Driver Week 2023?
This week serves as an important reminder of the shared responsibility we all have in making our roads safer, and companies managing fleets play a crucial role in this collective effort.
To learn more about how your company can elevate your fleet’s driver safety program and better mitigate risk, explore the helpful resources offered in our free content hub. Visit the link below to get started!
