Expert Perspective Presented by Nationwide

Fleet Safety for All Translates to Fewer Incidents, Lower Costs

A successful safety program mixes a little bit of the right tech with a program that addresses all the vehicles in the fleet, from large to small.

Mark McGhiey, Senior AVP of Loss Control at Nationwide

Fleet safety is not only a concern for businesses with large vehicles, but also for any organization that operates vehicles of any size or number. Traffic fatalities have increased by 22% since 2019, due to factors such as speeding, distraction, impairment, and lack of seat belt use. One accident can expose an organization to costly lawsuits and reputational damage.

To prevent these risks, organizations need to implement a safety program that covers all aspects of their fleet, from technology to training to policies. Mark McGhiey, Senior AVP of Loss Control at Nationwide, shares some best practices for creating a successful fleet safety program.

Using Technology to Enhance Fleet Safety

Technology can help monitor and improve driver behavior, as well as provide evidence in case of accidents. Some examples of technology that can be used for fleet safety are:

Creating a Fleet Safety Program

Technology alone is not enough to ensure fleet safety. Organizations also need to have a safety program that sets clear expectations and standards for all drivers and vehicles in their fleet. McGhiey’s team has experience in helping to develop customized programs for different operations, based on their specific needs and goals. Some of the elements that a fleet safety program can include are:

McGhiey also notes that staffing shortages can pose a challenge for fleet safety, as organizations may lower their hiring standards or overlook driver records. This can result in more accidents and potential allegations of negligent hiring or entrustment.

Fleet safety is a vital issue for any organization that operates vehicles of any size, number, owned or non-owned. By using technology wisely and implementing a comprehensive safety program, organizations can reduce their fleet risks and costs, as well as protect their reputation and employees.