New research has shown that one-quarter of all drivers involved in fatal road collisions over the last five years were driving for work. The Road Safety Authority (RSA) presented the data at its annual Driving for Work seminar.
The RSA’s Director of Partnerships and External Affairs, Sarah O’Connor, said: “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 100km/h roads. Education and awareness around safe driving behaviours are needed for all those who drive for work, and not just HGV and van drivers.”
The typical profile of the drivers being killed was male, aged between 36 and 55, with half of them driving heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). The RSA defines driving for work as any person who drives on public roads as part of their job in a company vehicle or their own privately owned vehicle. It includes truck and van drivers, bus, coach and taxi drivers, utility company employees and service engineers, sales, marketing and delivery staff.
A nationally representative survey conducted by the RSA found that 25 per cent of motorists drive as part of their work. Two-thirds of those drivers are male, with 73 per cent between 17 and 49 years of age. Of those, 77 per cent drive a car, with the remaining 22 per cent driving other types of vehicles.
Mobile phone use and non-wearing of seatbelts
Results from the Driver Attitude & Behaviour Survey 2023 found a worrying pattern of dangerous driving emerging among those who drive for work. Those driving for work are more likely to exceed the speed limit, more likely to use a mobile phone while driving and less likely to wear a seatbelt. An observational survey by the RSA reported that 9 per cent, almost one in ten, were using a mobile device while driving, with van (LGV) drivers being the worst offenders. The survey found this behaviour to be consistent across urban roads, rural roads and motorways.
Deirdre Sinnott McFeat, Senior Inspector at the HSA, said: “There is an unacceptable level of death and injury to people who drive for work and to road users they come into contact with. The vast majority of workers do not set out to cause or become involved in a road collision or incident in the course of their working day. Often simple errors and omissions or a collection of them can have catastrophic consequences.”
Sarah O’Connor added: “People who drive for work also need to reflect on their behaviours on the road. Too many drivers are speeding, using mobile phones, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and not wearing a seat belt. They need to take responsibility and stop these dangerous behaviours.”