Professional drivers in the UK are driving fewer miles prior to a collision, prompting calls for a renewed focus on safety.

The total distance per collision driven by UK truck, van and taxi operators decreased by almost a fifth in 2023

Telematics expert Geotab found that the total distance per collision driven by truck, van and taxi operators in the UK decreased by almost one-fifth (19.12%) in 2023, from 920,000 miles to 740,000 miles.

Geotab’s ‘2024 State of Commercial Transportation’ global research also revealed that the UK is not the only country to see this trend, with Germany – the worst-performing market – posting over a quarter (27.3%) reduction in miles before an accident.

Only a few markets bucked this trend, with Spain (+5.66%), Italy (+5.25%) and Brazil (+4%) seeing the most significant rise in miles driven before a collision, suggesting fleet operators in these countries had taken measures to improve vehicle safety.

Geotab is working with UK companies to enhance the ability to analyse their safety programmes with predictive analytics and benchmarking.

Through the Geotab ‘Safety Center’ fleet operators can gain insights into the risk of collisions with predictive collision analytics. The ‘2024 State of Commercial Transportation’ study found that fleets using Geotab’s safety features have shown a 40% reduction in collision rates.

“Keeping drivers and other road users safe should be a top priority for all fleet decision-makers,” said David Savage, vice president for the UK and Ireland at Geotab. “Just over 20% of all road casualties occur in driving-for-work collisions. As an industry, we have a duty to reduce these numbers – which we can with better safety measures.”

The report also delves into key trends, challenges and potential within the industry, highlighting the pivotal role of advanced telematics in optimising fleet operations. By leveraging data intelligence and cutting-edge AI models, fleets can enhance safety measures, improve productivity and reduce costs, amidst rising fuel prices, regulatory shifts and economic uncertainties.

Geotab’s free report is available to download here.