Top 5 Driver Behaviours: Improving Fleet Safety and Efficiency

Understanding and improving driver behaviour is crucial for fleet owners managing 5 to 99+ vehicles. Good driving habits can enhance safety, reduce fuel consumption, and lower overall operating costs. This article looks into the top 5 driver behaviours, highlighting how telematics technology can help monitor and improve these behaviours for a more efficient and safer fleet. By addressing risky driving styles and promoting good practices, fleet managers can ensure better performance and sustainability for their business.

What is driver behaviour?

Driver behaviour refers to how drivers act on the road. It includes their driving style, reactions to stress, adherence to traffic rules, and how they interact with other road users. Monitoring and improving driver behaviour can lead to safer roads and more efficient fleet operations.

Top 5 driving styles

1. Aggressive driving

Aggressive driving includes speeding, tailgating, and erratic lane changes. It increases the risk of accidents and can lead to higher fuel consumption and vehicle wear and tear. Drivers who are often stressed or angry are more likely to exhibit aggressive driving behaviours.

2. Distracted driving

Distracted driving involves any activity that diverts attention from driving, such as using a mobile phone or eating. It significantly increases the risk of accidents. Fleet managers can mitigate this risk by promoting focused driving and using telematics to monitor and alert drivers.

3. Defensive driving

Defensive drivers anticipate potential hazards and adjust their driving accordingly. This behaviour reduces the likelihood of accidents and promotes a safer driving environment. Defensive driving training can help cultivate this behaviour in your fleet.

4. Eco-driving

Eco-driving focuses on fuel-efficient driving techniques, such as gentle acceleration and braking. It helps reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly driving style.

5. Inattentive driving

Inattentive driving occurs when drivers fail to notice important road signs, signals, or conditions. This can be due to fatigue, daydreaming, or other distractions. Encouraging regular breaks and using telematics to monitor driver alertness can help address this issue.

Good driving behaviour

Good driving behaviour includes adherence to traffic laws, maintaining safe distances, and being courteous to other road users. Promoting a culture of good driving behaviour within your fleet can lead to fewer accidents and lower operating costs.

Driving styles that cause the most risk

Risky driving styles, such as aggressive and distracted driving, are major contributors to road accidents. These behaviours not only endanger the driver but also other road users. Identifying and addressing these behaviours through monitoring and training is essential for fleet safety.

Telematics and driving behaviour

Telematics technology provides real-time data on various aspects of driving behaviour. It helps fleet managers monitor speed, braking patterns, and other driving metrics. By using telematics, you can identify risky behaviours and provide targeted training to improve driver performance.

Telematics and your fleet

Implementing telematics in your fleet offers several benefits:

Minimise downtime: Receive alerts for routine maintenance and spot issues before they cause breakdowns.
Lower carbon emissions: Monitor fuel usage and identify ways to reduce CO2 emissions.
Enhance safety: Use driver behaviour data to improve safety and meet duty of care responsibilities.

For example, RAC Connected offers solutions like ConnectOne and Connect360, which provide powerful insights into your fleet's performance.

Improving driver behaviour is vital for fleet safety and efficiency. Using telematics, you can monitor driving styles, address risky behaviours, and promote good driving habits. Investing in telematics solutions like RAC Connected can lead to significant benefits for your fleet.