Trucking businesses are vital to the commerce industry because they transport 71% of the goods in the United States Of America [Source]. Regrettably, trucking companies are experiencing one of the worst driver shortages in decades due to a nationwide supply crisis affecting everything from food availability to construction supplies.
Furthermore, driver burnout, long delivery center wait times, and a competitive job market in many industries are issues for fleet managers searching to attract and retain skilled truck drivers. Although there are no one-size-fits-all solutions, fleet managers can employ various strategies to attract and retain qualified drivers to keep operations running during a difficult period. Fleet managers can also work towards hiring fleet drivers if the need arises. This guide will help you in the process of hiring fleet drivers for your business so it runs smoothly.
What Does Being A Fleet Driver Mean?
If you want to know about hiring fleet drivers, this article will help you.
A fleet driver is a licensed individual representing a group of Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators. Their primary responsibilities include passenger transportation and freight hauling between destination routes. Better and safer drivers are required to reduce risks, injuries, and costs.
The importance of safety impacts the entire organization-the vehicles, maintenance, operations, and of course, your drivers. Despite advancements in technology to improve vehicle safety, drivers are responsible for countless accidents.
What Are The Qualities That A Good Fleet Driver Needs To Have?
The safety of your fleet and business needs to start with the driver. To know about hiring fleet drivers, Here are some qualities that you can look for in a driver while hiring:
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Ability To Identify Behaviors That Increase Risk
It should suffice to say that electronic devices, such as cell phones, are among the most common distractions for drivers. Driving while distracted by a gadget, whether hands-free or handheld, does hurt response time, pace, following distance, and lane position. Another factor contributing to mass transit fatalities and injuries is alcohol, followed closely by concerns about marijuana legalization, the enhanced use of synthetic drugs, and the massive rise in prescription and medication abuse. Exhaustion can be as lethal as alcohol and drug impairment. Fatigue frequently leads to accidents if drivers, such as commercial vehicle operators, do not get enough rest.
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Education And Training
Distracted driving requires a change in the driver’s thinking and behavior. You can effectively address these issues through fleet driver training. Distracted, exhausted, and impaired drivers are more likely to be aware of their dangers when involved in education.
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Ability To Adapt Your Company Policies
The establishment of company policies relating to the safe operation of vehicles creates an understanding of your expectations. A policy mentioning a cell phone (or any portable electrical gadget) while driving a company-owned, rented, or personal vehicle on a corporate business is a good example. Likewise, requiring drivers to be medically fit ensures that they are in good health and fitness before using a company vehicle.
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Data Management
Improving performance is the key to developing better drivers. It is critical to measure performance to improve it. The potential to retain driver information allows for more accurate reporting on accident rates and behavior. Thus, reducing the cost of repairs, vehicle downtime, and insurance premiums. Using data can also assist with identifying training needs, analyzing risks, and developing effective policies and procedures.
