UK Collision Rates Rise: Safety Focus Needed

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UK commercial drivers are covering fewer miles before collisions, signaling a need for heightened safety measures, according to Geotab’s latest report. This analysis, part of the ‘2024 State of Commercial Transportation’ report, highlights a significant reduction in the distance driven before accidents occur, emphasizing a broader global trend.

Key Highlights

  • 19.12% decrease in miles driven before a collision by UK truck, van, and taxi operators in 2023.
  • Global analysis shows a similar trend, with Germany experiencing a 27.3% reduction.
  • Predictive analytics and benchmarking used by Geotab to enhance safety programs.
  • Fleets utilizing Geotab’s safety features report a 40% reduction in collision rates.
  • Telematics data crucial in improving fleet safety, productivity, and cost-efficiency.

Geotab, a leader in connected transportation solutions, reported that UK commercial drivers drove 19.12% fewer miles before collisions in 2023, decreasing from 920,000 miles to 740,000 miles. For a fleet of 1,000 heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), each driving 75,000 miles annually, this decline could result in an additional 20 collisions each year.

David Savage, Vice President for the UK and Ireland at Geotab, stated, “Keeping drivers and other road users safe should be a top priority for all fleet decision-makers. Just over 20% of all road casualties occur in driving-for-work collisions*. As an industry, we have a duty to reduce these numbers – which we can with better safety measures.”

Geotab’s report, based on telematics data from over one million commercial vehicles globally, noted an overall increase in collisions. Germany was particularly affected, showing a 27.3% decrease in miles driven before an accident. Conversely, countries like Spain (+5.66%), Italy (+5.25%), and Brazil (+4%) demonstrated improvements, suggesting effective safety measures were in place.

Enhancing Safety Approaches

Geotab collaborates with UK companies to enhance their safety programs through predictive analytics and benchmarking. The Geotab ‘Safety Center’ provides fleet operators with insights into collision risks, utilizing predictive collision analytics. The study revealed that fleets employing Geotab’s safety features saw a 40% reduction in collision rates.

The report also discusses key industry trends, challenges, and opportunities, underlining the importance of advanced telematics in optimizing fleet operations. By leveraging data intelligence and cutting-edge AI models, fleets can bolster safety measures, increase productivity, and reduce costs, especially in light of rising fuel prices, regulatory changes, and economic uncertainties.

For more information, the full report is available for free on the Geotab website: Geotab State of Commercial Transportation 2023.

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