Revealed: how to make our roads safer

Recently, trucks have been in the news for all the wrong reasons. How can we change this sorry situation? A leading insurer in the heavy haulage industry has some advice for transport operators and drivers.

On 6 March, a truck ploughed into morning traffic, causing a multi-vehicle accident on the M41 in Umhlanga, Durban. This incident is a timely reminder that road safety is a huge ongoing concern in the transport and logistics space. As a leading insurer in the heavy haulage industry, Santam says it is continuously engaging with all stakeholders to highlight this pertinent issue and raise awareness.

“The last few years have drawn the public’s attention to the rising number of truck-related incidents; the horrific nature of recent accidents we have seen involving trucks on the country’s roads has increased the need for urgent interventions from the public and private sectors,” says Anton Cornelissen, head of Santam Heavy Haulage. “There’s a growing need to promote safer driving behaviour to safeguard other motorists travelling on the road, especially on busy roads with an increased presence of trucks.”

As well as ensuring trucks are in a roadworthy condition, Santam offers some useful advice to drivers and fleet managers, helping drivers overcome most of the challenges they face on the road and fleet operators to promote safer driving behaviour.

Perform regular truck inspections

Cornelissen says truck drivers should examine their vehicles regularly to ensure they are in good working condition. By conducting an inspection that includes checking the brakes, tyres, lights, and engine, truck drivers can avoid potential accidents and keep themselves and others safe on the roads.

Heavy haulage fleets require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly and efficiently, but depending on the size and scope of the operation, maintenance needs will vary. Regardless of these differences, fleet managers must schedule regular general maintenance tasks, such as inspecting and servicing their trucks and trailers, checking and replenishing fluids and lubricants, maintaining tyres at proper inflation levels, and performing regular safety checks.

It is also crucial that fleet operators develop a good relationship with a qualified heavy truck repair shop. This way, they can be sure that their trucks will receive the expert care and attention they need when required.

Drivers must be well rested

Cornelissen says it is important to remember that, in addition to mechanical issues and failures that cause accidents, truck drivers work under uniquely physically demanding conditions. This puts them at increased risk which, when coupled with fatigue, can negatively affect their reaction time and significantly increase the risk of road collisions. For this reason, truck drivers must get plenty of rest, including a minimum of six hours of sleep before a long drive, and should not drive continuously for more than five hours without taking breaks of at least 15 minutes.

Use technology to promote safer driving behaviour  

Technology – including telematics, vehicle monitoring, and dashboard cameras – allows fleet operators to connect their cameras to lane departure warning systems that will record videos when trucks gradually drift out of a lane. This technology can identify sudden changes in driver behaviour that could indicate drowsy driving, thereby minimising accidents.

Manage expectations with dispatchers

Cornelissen says fleet operators must effectively manage expectations between drivers, dispatchers, and other operators in the value chain. For example, truck drivers travelling on roads with fewer vehicles may feel the need to drive faster in order to meet demand. By managing expectations, fleet operators can ensure drivers stick to the speed limit at all times and obey the rules of the road. Operators can also help drivers establish detailed trip plans, creating a better balance between client demands, service hours, regulations, and the need to rest.

Safeguard driver health

Cornelissen says the most crucial part of a moving truck is the driver. For this reason, businesses must ensure drivers have access to regular health checks to screen for lung diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, impaired vision, and obesity. These checks can identify drivers at risk so that fleet operators can take corrective measures and ensure drivers get the medical assistance they require. Drivers should also limit the need to visit shops during a trip. To do this, they should ensure they have all the essentials for the journey, including water, healthy meals, snacks, and medication.  

Limited stops, good road route assessments, and safe stopping areas tailored for each specific route can also limit the risk of truck-jacking and the theft of parts and diesel.

“It’s no secret that the trucking industry is vital to the South African economy. Without trucks, our nation would come to a halt. That is why it is so important that, as a leader in heavy haulage insurance, we encourage fleet operators to prioritise the health and wellness of truck drivers and other road users in the country. By ensuring vehicles are in working order and highlighting the importance of driver wellness, we can collectively promote safer South African roads,” concludes Cornelissen.