The success of your trucking business depends on many things, but one of the most crucial aspects defining your business is your drivers. You depend on them to deliver/transport goods safely to the exact location in a timely manner, but what if you hire someone who you find to be operating one of your trucks irresponsibly? Hiring safe drivers for your trucking business should be your priority if you want to stay in business.

Owning a business using fleet drivers means taking the time and effort to hire commercial drivers who follow procedural rules and regulations while driving safely. Whether you have drivers that only occasionally drive or ones that spend hours on the road daily, the measure to which you hire should remain the same. The objective for you as a successful trucking business owner is to minimize accidents, optimize business success, and protect your reputation.

Safe Drivers Are Beneficial to Your Business

Your drivers represent YOU and your business so it makes sense to exercise stringent hiring practices. Below are 2 major reasons why hiring safe drivers is essential:

Minimizes Accidents- If you have reckless and/or distracted drivers on the highway operating your fleet vehicles, chances are you will be faced with an increase in accidents and will ultimately pay a much higher insurance premium. Not only that, but clients or potential customers may avoid doing business with a trucking company that has multiple accidents or a history of poor hiring practices.

Promotes/Protects Your Business Reputation- Each time a driver takes one of your trucks on the road, it reflects on you and your business. If other people see one of your trucks advertising your business logo, they will take notice of the driver. If your driver is traveling at a safe speed and following the rules of the road, and looks professional, it will have a positive impact on other people’s perceptions of you and your business. However, if your driver is driving erratically and is distracted, you can bet anybody who witnesses it will make a mental note NOT to use your business.

Basic Guidelines to Consider When Hiring Drivers for Your Business

Establish consistent criteria for ALL drivers- There must be standard guideless in place that all drivers or potential hires must agree to practice.

Research motor vehicle records (MVR) for any traffic violations- A past history of multiple accidents, traffic violations, tickets, etc. predicts the likelihood of that person’s future accident/risk potential.

Verify past work history- Taking a look at the candidate’s past employers in regards to any poor work ethic may provide the insight you need.

Perform complete background checks- Background checks will enlighten you to any past criminal history or any other red flags.

Conduct road and written driving test

Verify any driving certification(s)

Paramount Insurance Agency is here to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding the hiring of safe drivers for your fleet vehicles. Our main objective is to promote your business success by minimizing risks and offering sound business solutions to do so.