Fleet managers have always carried a duty of care to ensure vehicles are roadworthy and drivers are legally compliant. But approaches are being redefined. It is no longer just about maintaining vehicles and licences: it is about safeguarding the health, safety, and wellbeing of drivers themselves, both behind the wheel and beyond…
Why Wellbeing Matters
Drivers are at the sharp end of operations. Long hours, traffic congestion, irregular shifts, and rising customer expectations can all contribute to stress, fatigue, and declining physical health. According to recent industry studies, driver wellbeing directly correlates with road safety performance, productivity, and retention. A fatigued or distracted driver is more likely to make errors, while a supported, healthy driver is safer, more engaged, and more loyal to their employer.
From Reactive to Proactive Duty of Care
Historically, many organisations have treated driver health reactively: addressing issues only after an incident. Best practice in 2025 is about proactive prevention. Fleet managers are increasingly implementing programmes that monitor and support wellbeing as part of daily operations.
Examples include:
- Fatigue monitoring systems built into telematics platforms, which alert drivers and managers when signs of tiredness are detected.
- Wellbeing apps offering mindfulness tools, health advice, and access to counselling services.
- Regular health checks for drivers, covering eyesight, cardiovascular health, and musculoskeletal issues.
- Flexible rostering to reduce long, irregular shifts that contribute to fatigue.
The Mental Health Dimension
Mental resilience is now firmly recognised as part of duty of care. Fleet managers are partnering with HR teams to provide access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), stress management training, and peer support networks. Open conversations about mental health, once considered taboo in transport, are increasingly encouraged as organisations aim to build a culture of trust and support.
Business Benefits of Driver Wellbeing
Investing in wellbeing is not just the right thing to do—it delivers measurable results. Organisations that prioritise driver health report:
- Fewer accidents and incidents on the road.
- Reduced sickness absence and associated costs.
- Higher driver retention and lower recruitment challenges.
- Enhanced reputation with clients, insurers, and regulators.
A Broader View of Duty of Care
Fleet managers who define duty of care narrowly, limited to vehicle checks and legal compliance, risk falling behind. The leaders in this space are those who take a holistic view of driver welfare, embedding wellbeing into daily operations and demonstrating that people, not just vehicles, are the backbone of safe, efficient fleets.
By recognising that driver wellbeing is central to duty of care, fleet managers can create healthier workforces and more resilient operations for the future.
Are you searching for Duty of Care solutions for your organisation? The Fleet Summit can help!
Photo by sydney Rae on Unsplash
