Top Benefits of Reverse Parking

Arriving at your destination and pulling into the parking lot can create a false sense of safety for any driver. Unfortunately, according to research by PHH Arval and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), most fleet vehicle damage is caused by parking lot accidents.

Driver safety is a top priority for every fleet, so how can you train your drivers to stay vigilant until the keys are out of the ignition? Read through the following list for topics to address with your fleet drivers.

1. Reverse parking

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that around 15,000 people are injured and nearly 300 people are killed in backing accidents every year. Many of the accidents occur because the driver is unaware of his surroundings or unable to clearly see what is happening around the vehicle. By backing into parking spots, drivers can have a better visual of their surroundings when parking and pulling out.

2. Cost

Parking lot accidents are mostly fender-benders, right? What’s the big deal? Hopefully your drivers don’t have this attitude, but it’s important to help them understand the cost behind every accident, even fender-benders.

Every time a fleet vehicle is involved in an accident, your company loses time and money, even if there aren’t injuries involved. You have to pay to fix any damages and to cover any insurance costs. Accidents also cost out-of-service time for damaged vehicles, as well as any time spent speaking to authorities and filling out insurance paperwork.

3. Cameras and mirrors

If you have backup cameras installed in your vehicles, make sure your drivers know how to use them. Hold training sessions and check your devices to make sure they are all working. If you don’t have cameras, remind your drivers to utilize their mirrors at all times.

4. Distractions

Music, emails, texts, phone calls, food, drinks, and dropped objects are the easiest way to lose control of your vehicle. Implement a strict policy to keep your drivers from using phones, eating, or fiddling with the music while driving. Clearly state that this applies to any time the vehicle is not in park.

How do you address accidents within your fleet?