Fleet owners warned about post-lockdown driving behaviour on UK roads

Fleet owners are being warned about the post-lockdown driving behaviour of drivers on UK roads.

Now that the new school year has begun and many people are returning to the workplace, the roads are beginning to get busier once again.

And according to new research, driving habits have gotten much worse in that time…

Changing behaviour

In fact, almost half of all the drivers surveyed think that it’s fine to use their mobile phones behind the wheel.

No, really.

One in 10 drivers think it’s acceptable to answer a video call while driving, and 7% admit that they catch up with their favourite TV shows while driving on longer journeys.

Other research has also indicated that driving standards have fallen with drivers stepping away from the daily commute for an extended period of time.

The most concerning development from the research findings is the continued use of technology while driving, particularly with the latest regulations looking to crack down on it to reduce the potential for road traffic incidents.

Even more worrying is the fact that 11% of respondents feel it’s okay to get behind the wheel after having an alcoholic drink if “you feel fine to drive”.

More than 2.3 million drivers are fined for speeding every year, with research finding that 55% of road users believe there has been a rise in speeding on the roads in the last 18 months.

For fleets, the prospect of drivers gaining penalty points and possibly losing their licence is already serious enough. But the sight of a vehicle emblazoned with the organisation’s logo or name being driven erratically or dangerously can have a negative effect on the perception of the business by other road users and pedestrians.

What does this mean for commercial drivers?

For those who drive for work, these changing habits are concerning.

With 22% of drivers admitting to steering one-handed, 12% saying they’re too easily distracted while driving, and 15% admitting they drive too quickly, there’s plenty for drivers to be aware of.

Commercial drivers should be made fully aware of the new regulations that came into force recently, one of which means that it is illegal for any driver to pick up and use their mobile phone while driving – which applies to all aspects of phone use, including using social media and scrolling through playlists.

Questions have also been raised around using mobile phones as satnavs because the new regulations mean that once you’re driving, it’s illegal to use your phone for any reason.

It means that drivers must set their route before they turn on their engine, with setting the destination while driving running the risk of incurring six penalty points and a £200 fine.

What precautions are your drivers taking to ensure they’re safe on the roads? Have you warned your drivers of post-lockdown driving behaviour? Let us know how you’re handling the issue at [email protected].