Driver self-reported fleet safety characteristics: A study predicting organisational risk

Abstract

Objective. Occupational fleet safety is an emerging issue for Australian and overseas organisations. Research has shown that road crashes are the most common cause of work-related fatalities, injuries and absences from work. Study objectives were to identify driver characteristics (particularly behaviour and attitude) which pose potential risks to work-related driving safety within the organisation. Survey is used as a baseline to assist targeted intervention development
Material and methods. A questionnaire survey was administered as part of a baseline assessment to a large Australian fleet. A total of 4195 individuals volunteered to participate in the study and were located throughout Australia in both urban and rural areas. The survey utilised the Manchester Driver Behaviour Questionnaire (DBQ), Driver Attitude Questionnaire (DAQ), Safety Climate Questionnaire (SCQ) and Sensation Seeking Questionnaire (SSQ).
Results. Within the study drivers reported engaging in speeding behaviours (univariate analysis) and believed speeding was more acceptable compared to drink driving, following too closely or performing risky overtaking manoeuvres. However, multivariate analysis determined factors associated with self-reported crash involvement revealed that increased work pressure and driving errors were predictive of crash risk, even after controlling for exposure to the road. Not surprisingly, young male drivers tended to be higher sensation seekers compared to older drivers. In addition, sensation seeking was strongly related to unsafe driving practices as identified by the DBQ and DAQ.
Discussion and conclusions. Vehicle drivers who feel more time pressures also have poorer safety attitudes and behaviours. Self-reported exceeding of speed limits and an attitude that this practice is acceptable behaviour was identified as the most common aberrant driving practice and is a risk which should be addressed.