Fleets looking to address driver safety through technology solutions should ensure their chosen system targets driver behaviour.

Chris Horbowyj of GreenRoad Technologies says driver behaviour is the key to fleet safety

So says GreenRoad, which reckons that fleet managers are being bombarded with so many different messages about how to make their fleets and drivers safer that it is causing confusion in the marketplace.

Chris Horbowyj, UK director of sales of GreenRoad Technologies, commented: “The key is to keep sight of your end objective. If it’s driver safety then it is important to remember that the root cause of up to 90% of traffic accidents is poor decision-making by drivers. You can buy all the mirrors, cameras, monitors and tracking systems you like, but you won’t maximise your chances of success until you address driver behaviour.

“Driver behaviour is the key to fleet safety – and it is vital to get drivers on-board with your safety strategy. They are, after all your ambassador, the people on whom your business and your customers rely.”

He added: “There is a confusing plethora of telematics options on the market. Fleet managers need to ask if a telematics system both engages drivers in a positive and timely manner to help them to improve, but also is supported by clear reporting channels to provide ease of use for the operator.

“Ingraining good driving habits on a daily basis leads to long-term, sustainable, positive change across a fleet. Empowering all drivers to take charge of their own improvement leads to positive engagement.

“Better driving leads to safer journeys, lower accident-related costs, lower insurance premiums, less wear and tear on vehicles and reduced fuel costs – which results in considerable savings.”