Fleet repair plan: How to prepare for the unexpected
Fleet drivers spend countless hours on the road driving endless miles. They’re eventually going to have something unexpected happen. They may be involved in an accident, their fleet vehicle may break down, or they may encounter another emergency. Being prepared in these types of situations is essential.
What are some common roadside emergencies? How can a fleet driver prepare for these emergencies so they can be prevented or managed properly? Obtaining roadside assistance for truck drivers is beneficial, but a person should also know what to do while they wait for this assistance to arrive.
Breakdowns and accidents
Every fleet driver should inspect their vehicle regularly. This inspection should take place before they embark on a trip and once they return from the trip. When completing the inspection, the driver should pay attention to areas most likely to suffer a breakdown. Inspect the tires to ensure they have enough air and no damage. Test the brakes to determine whether they are working correctly, and look over the electrical system to see if there are any apparent problems. If problems are caught with any of these vehicle components, alert the company immediately to address the issue before it escalates.
Every person should know how to drive defensively. Remaining within the posted speed limit is one way to do so, and drivers should adjust their behavior according to the weather conditions. Every driver must maintain a four-second space cushion when following another vehicle. If weather conditions deteriorate, that distance should be increased.
Drivers need to limit distractions, as distracted driving is the cause of countless accidents every year. Scan the road constantly for hazards and be alert when behind the wheel. A person should never drive if they have been drinking alcohol or they are drowsy. Anytime someone cannot give the road their full attention, they should pull over immediately.
Every vehicle needs a well-stocked emergency kit. At a minimum, this kit should contain warning triangles, a flashlight, and jumper cables. Well-prepared drivers will also have a tire pressure gauge, a phone charger, blankets, food, and water. It is also helpful to have basic tools in this kit, including a screwdriver and wrenches.
Reacting to an emergency
Drivers must know how to react in an emergency. They should immediately pull over in a safe place, preferably a wide shoulder and level surface. Alert other drivers to the emergency by engaging the hazard lights. Use warning triangles and flares to let other drivers know of the problem.
If there has been an accident, ensure everyone is okay. Any injury should be reported immediately to the appropriate authorities, and 911 should be called so the police can assess the situation. The driver should collect identifying information from all parties at the accident site, including insurance information. It is helpful to take photos of the accident site for evidence. In addition, fleet drivers must report the accident to their dispatcher immediately.
Upon taking these steps, the driver should call their roadside assistance team for help. Please wait in the vehicle until this team arrives. Avoid calling outside towing companies, as they may charge excessive fees or remove the truck when it is drivable.
Medical emergencies
A medical emergency is one of the scariest things a driver can encounter. These types of emergencies can be reduced if a person has regular checkups and knows of any chronic conditions they have. Managing these conditions will reduce the risk of an accident or other emergency. In addition, drivers should know the warning signs of a potential medical problem. These signs include shortness of breath, excessive sweating, chest pain, and dizziness. Drivers should also have a vehicle first aid kit to handle minor medical issues.
In any emergency, a driver should immediately pull off the road. Call 911 for help, and then contact the dispatcher. The dispatcher can help ensure the authorities arrive at the site and advise the driver on additional steps to take.
