In the transportation industry, we are facing a lot of emphasis on the importance of driver’s physical health and safety awareness. While driver safety programs and physical health examinations are highly essential since an individual’s wellbeing is dependent on their state of mind.

Unfortunately, the life of a truck driver is a solitary one, the lack of interaction with others would lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. It doesn’t affect only mental wellbeing, but it could lead to burnout, heart disease, and impaired immune system.

That’s why it is important that fleet managers have to check their drivers regularly and ensure they are mentally and physically healthy while on the road. This should be assessed before the truck drivers are allowed behind the wheel. 

Some of the potential risky conditions include-

• Depression – This could make your drivers unconcerned about their own safety & others’ safety.
• Stress - Is one of the major factors that fleet drivers face mentally together with fatigue.
• Anxiety - Sometimes, they might suffer in a state of paralysis or avoid a crash.

How fleet managers can help their truck drivers?

Supporting your employee’s mental health should be considered as the primary one. It ensures the well-being & safety of the drivers, which could lead them to work more efficiently without stress. Here is how you can help your fleet truck drivers.

Engaging with drivers is more important than ever: You should keep an open conversation with truckdrivers and be available for them to express any potential concerns that may impact their activity. It helps the drivers to release their stress and lead a healthy lifestyle & have proper sleep to prevent fatigue.

Fraikin trucking companies take care of their truck drivers to keep their mind sharp and relaxed. So, what are the steps that fleets can do?

Take Regular Breaks

Fleet drivers have a temptation to push through the wheel in order to reach their destination as fast as possible. In this situation, driving without taking any breaks could lead them to feel exhausted and dangerous. As a fleet manager, you should strongly encourage the drivers to stop and take a break wherever necessary.

This could be as simple as spending 10-20 minutes cleaning their vehicle or taking a lunch break is a great change of pace. It helps your fleet truck drivers to relax and de-stress themselves.

Stick to routine

Driving often involves long journeys and grueling hours on the road. The best thing you can do for your driver is to help them establish good habits by sticking to the schedule while they are on the road.

The simple act of having breakfast every morning before getting into the wheels is a great way to establish structure. As a fleet manager, you are responsible for taking care of your driver’s mentality that includes adequate rest time and keeping their mind active.

Use technology to find issues

There are many tools and technologies that help to prevent driver safety issues in fleets. Think about telematics, distracted driver solutions, collision management that makes your driver feel safer and relieved.

How tracking can reduce your fleet driver stress?

Installing a fleet telematics system, you can easily monitor your fleet driver’s performance, progress, and activities. This ensures making awareness of any kind of issues on the road ahead.

Conclusion

It is important to pay close attention to the well-being of your fleet drivers – Not only for their physical but also for their mental well-being. By encouraging your fleet truck drivers to take regular breaks and stick to a consistent routine, and developing awareness of their limits, you can improve their well-being and mental health.