Blog Post
Prioritizing Fleet Safety: Proven Strategies for a Safer Fleet
By Kerry Mooney
January 28, 2025

When it comes to fleet management, safety isn’t just a component—it’s an essential pillar of success. As driver productivity increases, so do the challenges drivers face on the road. From the distraction of mobile devices to increasingly sophisticated vehicle dashboards, there’s no shortage of distractions. But with the right strategies, fostering a culture of safety is achievable.
As product manager at Wheels, I make it my mission to be certain that drivers return home safely every night, and I recently shared some tips in a video episode of Let’s Speak Fleet. Here, I’ll highlight some of the key takeaways from that video to help you build a safer fleet.
The Important Role of Telematics in Fleet Safety
Telematics has revolutionized the way fleet managers address safety by providing real-time insights into driver behavior and offering a proactive way to mitigate risks before they turn into incidents. Fleet managers can utilize telematics to develop an effective fleet driver safety program. Key metrics to monitor include:
- Harsh Braking: Sudden and frequent harsh braking can indicate distracted or aggressive driving behavior, which is often categorized as harsh driving.
- Speeding: Consistently exceeding speed limits contributes to accidents and should be addressed promptly.
- Sudden Acceleration: Abrupt accelerations often suggest risky driving behavior, which includes racing through intersections or overtaking vehicles improperly. This can be mitigated through driver training that emphasizes defensive driving techniques.
Addressing these behaviors early can dramatically reduce the likelihood of crashes. Telematics is an essential component of a larger fleet safety strategy. Combining it with programs like regular Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) checks and MVR monitoring, risk scoring, and tailored training programs creates a more robust safety strategy.
Addressing High-Risk Driver Behavior
When a driver is flagged as high-risk due to frequent speeding or harsh braking, it’s important to take immediate action. A few recommended actions you can take include:
- Provide Targeted Coaching: Use telematics data to highlight specific behaviors and provide coaching so that the driver can improve. For example, a driver with repeated speeding events might respond to data-driven feedback and the understanding that “fastest driver” isn’t a title worth holding.
- Leverage Peer Comparisons: Sharing comparative data amongst your team can encourage drivers to take ownership of their actions. Most people are motivated to change when they see how their performance stacks up against their peers.
- Offer Customized Training: Training should address both fleet-wide goals and individual issues. Options range from online modules to in-person sessions and even manager ride-alongs. Remember, the goal isn’t just to correct unsafe behaviors but to recognize and reinforce good practices.
Proactive Tips for New Fleet Managers
For those new to managing fleets, prioritizing safety from day one is critical. Here’s my top advice for fleet managers:
- Be Proactive, Not Reactive: Don’t wait for an incident to happen. Use data to identify potential risks and implement preventative measures. Regularly scheduled vehicle inspections and preventive maintenance can also contribute to overall road safety.
- Establish Clear Policies: Set clear expectations for driver behavior and ensure your team understands them.
- Invest in Safety Training: Select the appropriate safety training for your fleet so your drivers have the tools they need to succeed.
The Value of a Safe Fleet
A safer fleet doesn’t happen by accident (pun not intended). It’s the result of strategies, informed decisions, and having access to the right tools. Whether you’re implementing telematics, providing targeted driver coaching, or establishing clear safety policies, every step you take will assist in protecting your drivers and returning them home safely at the end of the day.
Let us help you make that commitment a reality. Contact us today to start the conversation on the steps to your safer, smarter fleet.

Wheels Product Manager