Commercial vehicles: how to prevent winter accidents
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The harsh Quebec winters influence driving. Caution is recommended for all drivers, especially those behind the wheel of commercial vehicles. Do not overlook the costs associated with accidents that may affect your company's vehicles. Educate your employees!
The cost of accidents
According to the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), nearly 40% of collisions occur in winter. By focusing on prevention, you could save yourself the expense of a damaged vehicle and the repercussions on your productivity and profitability.
In addition to a possible increase in the insurance premium for your vehicle fleet, other costs may be added, such as:
the insurance deductible for the accident vehicle;
removal of the end-of-use vehicle from the fleet;
the salary paid to the injured employee while awaiting compensation from the SAAQ and the Committee on Standards, Equity, Health and Safety at Work, and that paid to the replacement employee.
Indirect costs are also to be expected, such as:
delays in delivery;
reduction of services;
customer dissatisfaction.
Set up an accident prevention program
The program should include:
The proper preparation of vehicles for winter. Mandatory winter tire installation remains a priority, but the brakes, wipers and battery should be routinely inspected before the first snowfall.
The follow-up of the drivers. Your program should determine criteria for the selection of drivers, offer continuing education, allow periodic verification of driver's licenses (with the SAAQ business service), control alcohol and drug consumption.
A reminder of the need to adapt your driving to winter conditions, and awareness of visibility issues, including full window clearance, and tire grip depending on the characteristics of the road surface.
Advice on planning trips, including using tools such as Google Maps for directions, MétéoMédia for weather forecasts, and Québec 511 for the condition of the road network.
Access to a GPS and a hands-free mobile phone, particularly useful for employees who have to travel often.
Access, in the commercial vehicle, to equipment such as shovels, snow brushes and scrapers, jumper cables, non-slip plates and an emergency kit.
Putting the policy and its measures in writing, disseminating it and signing it by all parties concerned.
Analysis of incidents to avoid their repetition.
Reward good behavior
To promote the adherence of your employees, why not accompany your policy with a reward program for a driving record without offense or responsible accident? Managing the risk of accidents in winter is everyone's business and can avoid a host of personal problems for your employees and financial consequences for your business.
Also find out how to properly prepare your business for winter with our tips.
Category Companies
Commercial vehicles: how to prevent winter accidents
February 10, 2021
The harsh Quebec winters influence driving. Caution is recommended for all drivers, especially those behind the wheel of commercial vehicles. Do not overlook the costs associated with accidents that may affect your company's vehicles. Educate your employees!
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