Safe Driving Strategies for Construction Crews and Fleet Managers

Safe driving practices are paramount in the construction industry, serving as a critical safeguard for workers and a strategic measure to mitigate financial and operational risks.

And yet, the construction sector remains one of the most dangerous industries for workers. As many as 1 in 5 workplace fatalities occur on a construction job site, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Just a few years ago, transportation and material-moving workers experienced 1,523 fatal work injuries — a record high for the group.

As we transition into the spring and summer months, construction activities and travel peak will lead to increased traffic congestion and heightened risks. This period is often accompanied by a surge in work zone-related accidents, emphasizing the need for stringent safety protocols to protect workers and project timelines, and promote financial stability.

Nicer weather means more contractors are heading to outdoor job sites as well. The National Safety Council reports that in 2022, fatal work zone crashes killed 891 people and injured close to 40,000 others. The majority of these occurred in construction zones, in which 65% were deemed driver fatalities.

Implementing robust safe driving practices regardless of where your workers are offers numerous benefits, including reduced worker fatalities and injuries, equipment protection, and reduced insurance and claims costs. By fostering a culture of safety, construction businesses can enhance their operational efficiency and reputation.

Managing common commercial auto risks in construction

Construction businesses face a myriad of construction fleet accident risks, both on and off the job. Recognizing these is the first step toward implementing effective mitigation strategies.

On-the-job risks:

• Operating large vehicles in high-traffic areas: Construction vehicles such as dump trucks and flatbeds are challenging to maneuver, especially in congested urban settings. Their sheer size and limited visibility increase the likelihood of accidents.
• Blind spots: Large vehicles have extensive blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see other road users, leading to potential collisions.
• Distracted or fatigued driving: Engaging in activities that divert attention from driving, such as using mobile devices, eating, drinking, talking to passengers, or anything that takes focus off the road significantly elevates the risk of accidents. Additionally, driving while fatigued presents a significant risk.
• Improperly secured loads: Failure to secure equipment and materials properly can result in road debris, posing hazards to other motorists. Highway debris has been linked to numerous accidents and fatalities.

Off-the-job risks:

• Unauthorized use of vehicles: Workers using company vehicles for personal purposes without authorization can expose the business to unforeseen liabilities, including vehicular and reputational damage.
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, increasing the risk of accidents and costly repairs. Walk-around inspections should be a regular practice before getting into a vehicle to drive.

Safe driving tips for commercial vehicles

Construction businesses should adopt comprehensive safe driving and construction fleet safety practices, including the following:

• Effective hiring practices: Establishing stringent hiring protocols, including background checks, road tests, and motor vehicle record assessments, helps identify candidates with safe driving histories. Consulting legal experts to review hiring processes ensures compliance with state and federal laws.
• Employee training: Implementing thorough training programs and maintaining files on drivers ensures they are well-versed in safe driving techniques and company policies, including drug and alcohol policies. Emphasizing a culture of safety, where leadership models appropriate behavior like not calling or texting drivers while they are on the road, reinforces the importance of these practices to fleet drivers. Annual reviews and disciplinary action when needed are also paramount. Enhance training for drivers who do exhibit poor driving behaviors—whether via citations or the like—and increase the frequency of follow-up refresher trainings to ensure accountability.
• Vehicle maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance schedules are crucial to ensure vehicles operate safely and optimally. Properly maintained vehicles are less likely to experience mechanical failures that could lead to accidents.
• Telematics systems: Utilizing telematics allows for real-time monitoring of driving behaviors, enabling proactive interventions to correct unsafe practices. This technology, which includes cameras and sensors, can provide insights into patterns that may require additional training or policy adjustments. In a survey, the 2025 C-Suite Stress Index, company leaders say they are embracing dashcams to enhance safety, improve driver habits, and exonerate their drivers involved in lawsuits.
• Proper load securing: Ensuring all loads are securely fastened prevents materials from dislodging during transit, reducing the risk of road debris-related incidents. Adherence to load securing protocols is essential for safety and compliance.

Construction auto insurance coverage considerations

Adequate insurance coverage is vital for construction businesses to protect against the unique risks associated with their operations, including construction business liability for vehicle accidents. Tailoring insurance policies to specific driving tasks and potential hazards ensures comprehensive protection.

Consider the following coverages and their impact:

• Physical damage insurance: Helps cover repair, replacement cost, or actual value cost for your damaged vehicle. Includes collision and comprehensive coverage options.
• Commercial auto liability insurance: Offers coverage for third-party claims of bodily injury or property damage resulting from business operations.
• Umbrella insurance: Helps cover your business over and above your liability limits.
• Workers’ compensation: Provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, covering medical expenses and lost wages.