Driver’s safety: the increased risks on the road

86% of drivers confirm that traffic accidents have risen in the last five years.

Geotab, in collaboration with Endeavor Business Intelligence (USA) and the Angus Reid Forum, has published a study that highlights the urgent need to support driver well-being and road safety in road transport. The report reveals the challenges faced by commercial drivers, especially regarding safety and the concerning increase in traffic accidents in recent years.

Through a survey conducted with its subscribers, Geotab explains that many truck drivers put their safety at risk on a daily basis while performing their jobs. Among the most significant findings, the company highlights that a considerable number of drivers admit to regularly exceeding the speed limit to meet job requirements, increasing the danger on the road. Additionally, factors such as traffic congestion, using mobile phones while driving, and other risky behaviors are contributing to the rise in accidents.

These results underscore the need to implement continuous training programs focused on safe driving practices, to improve both driver well-being and road safety.

Increased road risks

The majority of respondents believe that the risk of accidents on the road has increased in the past five years, according to Geotab. The main reasons identified in the survey include the following:

Other drivers using mobile phones – 86%
Poor driving by others – 71%
Speeding by others – 51%

Furthermore, data from the Angus Reid Forum found that 2 out of 3 road users also believe the risk of accidents has increased over the past five years. Among the most observed dangerous behaviors are:

Poor driving by others – 79%
Other vehicles driving too fast – 55%
Increased traffic congestion – 37%

The majority of surveyed drivers believe that traffic accidents have increased in the last five years. 51% believe it has increased significantly, while 36% consider the increase to be moderate. In total, 86% of drivers confirm that traffic accidents have risen.

The future of the industry: prioritizing driver safety

Vik Sridhar, Geotab’s Product Lead, states that the research “shows a direct and fundamental relationship between driver well-being and the overall performance of the transport sector.” He further emphasizes that the future of the industry depends on prioritizing driver support, which is a strategic necessity for transport companies to attract and retain talent, leading to better business outcomes and safer roads for everyone.

Poor driving causes thousands of deaths each year. According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the average cost of a fatal accident involving a large truck is $3.6 million. In this context, Geotab’s results highlight the importance of addressing structural challenges and increasing investment in road safety.