5 December 2024

The Hidden Impact of Collisions on Driver Wellbeing: A Call for a ‘Safe System’ Approach

Fleets across the UK are being encouraged to adopt a 'Safe System' approach to help employees avoid the emotional toll and lasting impact of road collisions – particularly among young adults. This strategy isn’t just about preventing accidents; it's about safeguarding the mental and emotional wellbeing of drivers after an incident.

According to a recent survey conducted by the TTC Group, the UK’s leading road safety training organisation, almost 63% of respondents revealed that they or a loved one had experienced a collision that significantly affected their wellbeing. This included both accidents they were responsible for and those involving third parties.

Perhaps surprisingly, it’s not just the physical aftermath of a collision that has a lasting effect. One-third of participants reported a long-term decrease in overall confidence—not just behind the wheel, but in their day-to-day lives. Additionally, 31% of drivers admitted they struggled with sleep troubles following a crash.

It seems women are particularly impacted. 37% of female respondents reported sleeping difficulties, compared to just 25% of men.

While the emotional and psychological effects of an accident can linger for a long time, the practical consequences are no less significant. Over two-thirds (36%) of those surveyed identified the time-consuming and stressful administrative tasks following a collision is the biggest burden. Similarly, 35% noted the financial strain and 35% mentioned the trouble to their daily routine.

Andy Wheeler, Training Product Manager at TTC, noted, “Even the smallest of road incidents can have significant mental, physical, and financial consequences on people of all ages. Employers have a duty of care to protect employees physically when they drive for work, but also to address the lasting emotional and psychological impact of collisions.”

Wheeler emphasised that an employee’s ability to work—whether driving or performing other tasks—can be compromised after an accident. He also pointed out that while road safety training and awareness are essential, employers can do much more to reduce the risk of future collisions.

One effective strategy is adopting the 'Safe System' approach, which involves analysing collision and telematics data. This helps employers identify patterns, improve safety procedures, and create better driving policies.

Wheeler explains, "The ‘Safe System’ isn’t just about reducing accidents; it’s about having clear policies for handling collisions and trauma. This ensures proper support for drivers post-incident while enabling continuous improvement in safety practices, leading to fewer accidents and lower costs."

At Activa, we are committed to ensuring your drivers are not only safe on the road but also feel supported in the event of an incident. We understand the toll that collisions can take, which is why our team is available 24/7 to assist. You can trust us to be there when you need us, helping reduce risk and ensuring a safer, more confident driving experience for your employees.