Many people spend time driving as part of their daily work responsibilities – the team at Hendy Group provide tips for employees on the road.
From full-time driving instructors and retail delivery drivers to those who drive to the occasional client meeting, for many, time spent on the road is just an expected part of having a job.
Employers have a responsibility to ensure your safety when out on the roads, just as they do within a workplace. But as a responsible driver, you need to take action – not only for your protection but also that of others.
It’s easy to get complacent when driving long hours frequently, but it’s crucial to stay vigilant to avoid causing a road traffic incident. No matter how often you drive for work, here are some additional safety tips to keep in mind.
It may be your responsibility to maintain your vehicle, or it may fall to your employer to run regular maintenance checks. Either way, before you drive off, you should circle your vehicle to examine the exterior and ensure it’s safe to drive. You should:
If you’re setting off on a long journey, you may also need to check the oil, water, fuel and screen wash levels of the vehicle. Remember to plan your route effectively and leave plenty of time to reach your destination, reducing the need to speed or take any risks on the road.
Much like when driving outside of work, there are some essential safety precautions you’ll need to take behind the wheel. Driving defensively is a skill that helps to reduce the chance of being involved in a road collision. Sadly, five people are killed every day in Great Britain and a further 75 are seriously injured in car accidents. By taking a defensive driving course, you could help reduce these figures. The key tactics include:
Most of us are pretty confident in our driving skills, and as someone who drives for work, it can be all too easy to push on and finish the job despite being tired. But driving while fatigued can be as dangerous as driving after consuming alcohol, and according to ROSPA, as many as 40% of sleep-related road collisions involve commercial drivers.
It’s important to always pull over at a safe place and rest if you feel yourself becoming tired when driving. You should have a plan pre-agreed with your employer to help navigate best practices in these instances, especially if you frequently travel long distances for work. To help stay awake behind the wheel:
Know the warning signs
People rarely fall asleep suddenly behind the wheel for no reason, so it’s crucial to be mindful of the signs that it’s time to pull over. If you notice your mind wandering; you’re missing road signs, turnings or exits; or you’re constantly yawning or swerving in the road, it’s time to stop driving immediately.
Though you’ll hopefully never have to use them, it’s well worth having a first aid kit and an emergency kit in your vehicle. Include items such as a torch, blanket, umbrella or raincoat, spare drinking water, and basic tools for fixing common issues. If your vehicle has a spare tyre, ensure you have a jack. If not, a puncture repair kit is essential.
You should always familiarise yourself with procedures for dealing with accidents or breakdowns, including who to contact and what information you need to exchange. Your company may have specific requirements and policies surrounding this.
By following these essential safety tips, you can help to ensure your time on the road is as safe as possible. Driving responsibly makes a significant difference to the protection of yourself and other road users, and safe driving practices reduce the risk of collisions.
