Keeping Drivers Safe with Proper Training and Vehicle Inspections

Risk Management
Written By Megan Lockhart

Author, Jadyn Brandt, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

April is Distracted Driver Awareness Month, marking a perfect time to revisit your company’s driver training policies. Motor vehicle safety in the workplace is essential to protect employees from injury while limiting costs for the company. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports 39% of all fatal workplace injuries are caused by transportation incidents. Additionally, the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) found that an on-the-job highway crash costs employers an average of $26,000, and an injury costs the employer nearly $80,000 on average. With these statistics in mind, it should be a top priority of all employers to implement a driver and fleet safety program.

Driver safety training should be administered regularly to all employees who are expected to drive as part of their job. Consistent retraining during the year can help keep safe driving tactics top-of-mind and prevent complacency.

OSHA recommends driver training to include:

  • Vehicle characteristics, capabilities, and limitations

  • Vehicle instruments, controls, and safety components

  • Vehicle preventative maintenance checks and services

  • Company driving policies and procedures - seat belts, distractions (including drowsy and impaired driving), aggressive driving and speeding

  • Defensive Driving

  • Vehicle Backing

Rancho Mesa offers a number of driver training courses through the SafetyOne™ platform, including Driving Safety, Distracted Driving, and Driving Defensively.

In addition to driver safety, vehicle maintenance is also an important step in protecting your employees and other drivers. Regular maintenance and inspections play a vital role in employee safety. Drivers should always conduct pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections and document any deficiencies. Defective vehicles should be removed from service until the issue is repaired. OSHA lists the areas of the vehicle that should be inspected before and after each drive, they include:

  • Brakes/brake systems

  • Tires – including air pressure

  • Wheels, fasteners, and hubs

  • Lights and signals

  • Steering functions

  • Fuel and exhaust system

  • Fluid levels

  • Windows and mirrors – clear view

  • Emergency equipment and safety devices

  • Cargo securement – if applicable

  • Flatbed trailer fall protection systems – if applicable

Rancho Mesa’s Fleet Safety training, available through SafetyOne™, can improve a driver’s understanding of what is required of them before, during, and after their drive.

For additional information on how Rancho Mesa can help your company develop a fleet safety program, register for the Building A Fleet Safety Program with Rancho Mesa's Tools & Resources webinar on Friday, April 18, 2025.

Megan Lockhart
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