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A stark reminder of the risks associated with driving for work emerged today at the annual Driving for Work Seminar, hosted by the Road Safety Authority (RSA). Fresh analysis by the RSA revealed that one in four drivers involved in fatal road collisions over the past five years were driving as part of their job.

This sobering statistic is part of a study spanning 2019 to 2023, which also highlights that these drivers were predominantly male and aged between 36 and 55. Alarmingly, half of the drivers involved were operating heavy goods vehicles (HGVs).

HGVs accounted for 11% of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes during this period. In many cases, it was not the HGV driver but rather another motorist or a pedestrian who tragically lost their life.

Dangerous Driving Habits Under the Microscope

Sarah O’Connor

, Director of Partnerships and External Affairs at the RSA, presented a concerning picture of risky behaviours among those driving for work.

“Our survey data shows significantly higher levels of engagement in all dangerous behaviours among those who drive for work, including concerning levels of observed speeding among HGV drivers on 100 km/h roads,” she explained.

She emphasised the need for increased education and awareness of safe driving habits across all professions requiring driving, not just among HGV and van drivers.

Who Drives for Work?

The RSA’s Driver Attitude & Behaviour Survey 2023 sheds light on Ireland’s driving workforce. The survey found that 25% of motorists drive as part of their job, with two-thirds of them being male. While most of these drivers use cars, 23% operate other vehicle types, such as vans, trucks, and buses.

The survey also uncovered a worrying pattern of dangerous habits among drivers for work. These drivers are:

• More likely to exceed speed limits.
• More likely to use mobile phones while driving.
• Less likely to wear a seatbelt.

Compounding the issue, observational data from the RSA revealed that nearly one in ten motorists (9%) are using mobile devices while driving. Van drivers emerged as the worst offenders, with 13% seen engaging in this hazardous behaviour.

Employers’ Duty of Care

The seminar, attended by over 250 people, was co-hosted by the RSA, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), and An Garda Síochána. This year’s theme, “Back to Basics”, focused on educating employers about implementing effective driving-for-work policies.

Deirdre Sinnott McFeat, a senior inspector with the HSA, reminded employers of their responsibility to safeguard their employees and other road users.

“There is an unacceptable level of death and injury to people who drive for work and to road users they come into contact with. Often, simple errors and omissions or a collection of them can have catastrophic consequences,” she said.

She urged employers to adopt robust safety management systems to mitigate risks and prevent incidents.

A Call for Responsibility

The RSA, HSA, and An Garda Síochána have developed comprehensive resources to support organisations in fostering safe driving habits. These can be accessed at www.drivingforwork.ie.

Concluding the seminar, Sarah O’Connor issued a call for accountability among drivers:
“People who drive for work need to reflect on their behaviours on the road. Too many are speeding, using mobile phones, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and not wearing seatbelts. They need to take responsibility and stop these dangerous behaviours.”