Safety & prevention for truck drivers: the risks to avoid and the solutions to prevent them

Truck drivers are the essential links in the logistics chain, ensuring the transport of goods across thousands of kilometers. Yet, their profession is exposed to many occupational hazards, which can lead to accidents, injuries, material damage, and delivery delays.

A concerning observation:

• Every year, several hundred accidents involving heavy goods vehicles are recorded, often due to technical defects or human errors.

• 30% of work accidents for drivers occur during loading and unloading operations.

• Poor securing of loads can lead to tipping of goods during transport, endangering not only the driver but also other road users.

Hence the importance of adopting a rigorous prevention and equipping oneself with an effective tracking tool like Vesuv to ensure the safety of drivers, reduce accident rates, and guarantee compliance with transport standards.

1 - The main risks faced by truck drivers

The dangers for a truck driver are not limited to driving on the road. Many risks exist even before starting the vehicle.

1.1 - Improper securing of the trailer onto the truck

Poor securing can cause:

• A trailer overturning in a turn or during sudden braking.

• Load shifts that can destabilize the vehicle.

• A detachment of the trailer, an extreme danger on the road.

Example: A driver forgets to properly lock the coupling system of his trailer. During sudden braking on the highway, it detaches and causes an accident involving several vehicles.

Solution: Before each departure, perform a checklist to control the securing to ensure everything is correctly secured.

1.2 - Technical problems with the vehicle (tires, brakes, engine…)

A mechanical defect can endanger the life of the driver and other road users:

• Worn brakes increase the stopping distance and can cause collisions.

• A deflated or burst tire can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle.

• A engine problem can cause a breakdown on the highway.

Example: A driver goes on a route without checking his tires. After a few hours on the road, one of them bursts, forcing the truck to swerve on the highway.

Solution: Implement a systematic vehicle check before each departure, including checking tires, fluid levels, braking, and the engine.

1.3 - The risks related to loading and unloading the vehicle

The most common accidents during loading/unloading involve:

• Defective tarpaulins, which can lead to falls.

• Unsecured loading docks, with the risk of falling or crushing.

• Inadequate or damaged equipment (broken pallets, damaged pallet trucks).

Example: A driver uses a pallet truck with locked wheels. When trying to force it, he injures his back and must be sidelined for several weeks.

Solution: Systematically report defective equipment and check the loading conditions before intervening.

2 - How to reduce risks and improve driver safety?

Anticipation and prevention are essential to reduce the number of accidents. An effective solution is to rely on a digital tool like Vesuv, which allows drivers and fleet managers to better control equipment, report anomalies, and secure routes.

2.1 - Systematically check the vehicle before each departure

With a digiized checklist, the driver can verify:
✅ The condition of the tires, brakes, and headlights.
✅ The presence and condition of safety equipment (triangle, fire extinguisher, vest).
✅ The correct securing of the trailer and the distribution of loads.

With Vesuv: A pre-filled form allows tracking these checks in a few minutes and immediately alerts the team in case of a problem.

2.2 - Report all anomalies detected on the equipment used

When a driver spots an anomaly on his vehicle or loading equipment, he should be able to report it immediately.
With Vesuv, he can:
- Report a warning light on or a technical problem.
- Report the absence or breakage of equipment (strap, pallet truck, etc.).
- Share this information with the fleet manager in real-time.

Benefit: An immediate reaction that prevents sending a non-compliant vehicle on the road and limits the risk of breakdown or accident.

2.3 - Report any risk related to the loading site

Drivers often face dangerous customer sites, which must be reported to avoid future accidents.
With Vesuv, they can notify:
- An unsecured loading dock.
- A slippery or hazardous surface.
- Difficult access for the vehicle.

Why is this useful?
✅ These reports allow managers to anticipate risks.
✅ They facilitate the improvement of working conditions for drivers.

2.4 - Quickly report any material or vehicle damage

In the event of an incident, a quick report is essential to:
- Speed up the handling of repairs.
- Facilitate administrative processes (insurance, maintenance).
- Warn other drivers of a potential danger.

With Vesuv, each incident can be reported in a few clicks, with photos and a detailed description, ensuring effective handling.

3 - Securing truck drivers: a key issue for companies

The risks associated with road transport are numerous, but solutions exist to better prevent them.
Rigorous checks of vehicles and equipment are essential.
Fluid communication between drivers and managers allows for risk anticipation.
A digital tool such as Vesuv facilitates checks, tracking of anomalies, and incident reporting.

Need an effective solution to secure your routes?
Try Vesuv for free and simplify fleet management.

Contact us for a demonstration! 🚀