Commercial Driver Fatigue and the Risks Involved

Amongst other things, fatigue is one of the key factors in road accidents in South Florida and like many other places around the nation, drivers on long haul trips can be at risk. It can definitely have a huge impact on your business if you have drivers out on the road frequently, and can also impact your commercial auto insurance if driver fatigue isn’t managed correctly.
 
If anything has remained constant over the years, it’s that time is money. The longer it takes for goods to reach their destination, the more hidden costs can potentially occur. However, accidents, penalties, lost or damaged stock, as well as staff injuries and/or deaths could all cost you a lot more than creating and maintaining sustainable driving schedules and a proper set of rules and regulations for your transport staff.
 
There are legal requirements for timing breaks during long haul drives and the turnaround time between one trip and the next. While it might be tempting to push those limits and keep on truckin’, it isn’t sensible or healthy. You risk your drivers’ safety, and you risk breaking the law, in addition to the extra potential costs and hassles you could be dealing with. Your drivers should also be made aware of the risks for themselves and the company.
 
There is a light at the end of the tunnel though. Your insurance is there to offer you a financial safety net if, unfortunately, one of your drivers has an accident. However, while you may be able to replace a truck and the stock, you can’t replace a dead driver and or anyone else who may be hurt or injured in that accident. Create your schedules so there are built in breaks and stop-overs so your drivers are able to maintain alertness and safe driving at all times while they’re on the road.