In fleet management, managing risk is an ongoing commitment to safeguarding drivers and vehicles. But many businesses still take a reactive approach to this significant health and safety threat. In this blog, the question we’d like to pose is – is what you’re doing enough to truly protect your fleet and people? Or are you just hoping for the best?
Risk management: The myths
It’s easy to classify safety compliance as good, solid, ‘job-done’ risk management. Policies, procedures, and training are essential, but they’re just one aspect of the solution. Compliance-based training ensures drivers are familiar with the rules and regulations of the road – but what it doesn’t do is address the real-world complexities drivers face each day. Failing to take these complexities into account could one day mean the difference between life and death for one of your drivers.
And unfortunately, road deaths and injuries are on the rise, too. The latest figures from the Department for Transport (DfT) have revealed that road deaths increased in the UK last year. In total, there were 1,633 deaths on the road in 2024, which is a slight increase (1%) from 2023’s total, while 29,537 people were either killed or seriously injured. An estimated third of all deaths are attributed to driving for work incidents.[1]
At Drivetech, from The AA, we believe that every death is one death too many. We know that true risk management goes beyond ticking boxes. It’s about understanding the full scope of hazards drivers face and proactively addressing them – and before they cause an incident.
A proactive approach
Driving conditions, technology, and situations are constantly evolving. With change comes opportunity. By embracing ongoing, tailored support, businesses can better empower their drivers to adapt and excel in real-world scenarios. Recognising that every driver faces unique risks opens the door to customised interventions that maximise safety and performance.
Beyond compliance: Cultivating real-world preparedness
While compliance-based training is foundational – i.e., ensuring drivers understand the Highway Code, risk assessments and best driving practices – there’s a tremendous opportunity to boost this foundation with dynamic, scenario-based learning. Combining technology-driven insights with human-centred training prepares drivers to confidently make quick, smart decisions in complex and stressful situations.
In today’s evolving landscape, technology like AI and automation offers invaluable data and monitoring. But the real power lies in integrating these tools with personalised, proactive training that cultivates safer driving behaviours and resilience on the road. In 2024, we launched a brand-new tool to help businesses and fleets stay ahead of the curve when it comes to safety management. Our newly launched HALO Insights platform will improve the way companies manage on-road risk, providing a proactive approach to enhance driver behaviour, while streamlining operations and cutting costs for firms.
HALO Insights simplifies driving for work risk management by offering a single view of multiple data sources, including telematics, fuel, and vehicle data. The platform then automatically delivers tailored interventions to drivers, prompting behavioural change, and decreasing overall risk on our roads. Ultimately, HALO Insights aims to redefine how companies address on-road risk, improving driver behaviour through targeted interventions.
In-vehicle, hands-on training
At Drivetech, we know that the most effective way to manage fleet risk is through hands-on, in-vehicle training. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, companies can unlock significant value by identifying which drivers would benefit most from focused, hands-on coaching. This personalised approach not only enhances driver confidence – it also mitigates specific risks more effectively, resulting in safer roads for all road users.
This approach goes beyond theory and puts drivers in real-world situations where they can make decisions, handle risks, and gain valuable experience. But we understand that no machine can teach a driver how to react in real-time to a sudden hazard or manage the stress of a difficult driving scenario. Real-world experience, coupled with expert training, is what truly prepares drivers to handle the challenges, keeping every single member of your fleet safe and sound, whatever the road ahead holds.
[1] https://www.drivingforbetterbusiness.com/articles/landmark-study-reveals-driving-for-work-death-toll/
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