One trait that can set a motor carrier apart from its peers is how it responds after an incident occurs. Post-incident driver coaching can play a crucial role during this stressful period and requires a delicate balance of support and accountability.
Consider that the goal is not to criticize the driver and assign blame; it is about changing behavior and improving performance so the driver does not repeat the same mistakes. Here are some coaching strategies to consider that you might try incorporating into your post-incident procedures.
PROVIDE SUPPORT
Even if a driver is not injured, being involved in an incident can be traumatic, leaving a driver in a state of shock or experiencing a wide range of emotions. Before you can constructively coach the driver, offer support services such as counseling through an employee assistance program.
INVESTIGATE THE ROOT CAUSE
Before coaching can begin, it is essential to conduct a thorough investigation to understand the root causes of the incident. The incident may have been preventable even if the driver was not at fault. Conducting an incident investigation may help identify areas for improvement.
COMMUNICATE CLEARLY
Establish two-way communication at the onset of the first coaching session. Coaches can help alleviate the driver’s concerns by using non-confrontational language and focusing on facts rather than opinions. Be specific about the behaviors that need to change.
CONDUCT A ROAD TEST
Road testing applicants and tenured drivers is one way to observe driver behaviors behind the wheel and around the truck. This technique may help you identify performance gaps and teach proper techniques. A road rest could also be used after an accident to re-certify the driver and ensure they are ready to return to work.
SET SMART GOALS
Effective coaching often involves helping drivers set SMART goals, which are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Consider monitoring drivers using tools like fleet management software to determine if they are meeting their performance goals.
Note: These lists are not intended to be all-inclusive.
CALL TO ACTION
- Consider developing a driver coaching program.
The information in this article is provided as a courtesy of Great West Casualty Company and is part of the Value-Driven® Company program. Value-Driven Company was created to help educate and inform insureds so they can make better decisions, build a culture that values safety, and manage risk more effectively. To see what additional resources Great West Casualty Company can provide for its insureds, please contact your safety representative, or click below to find an agent.
© Great West Casualty Company 2024. The material in this publication is the property of Great West Casualty Company unless otherwise noted and may not be reproduced without its written consent by any person other than a current insured of Great West Casualty Company for business purposes. Insured should attribute use as follows: “© Great West Casualty Company 2018. Used with permission by Great West Casualty Company.”
This material is intended to be a broad overview of the subject matter and is provided for informational purposes only. Great West Casualty Company does not provide legal advice to its insureds, nor does it advise insureds on employment-related issues. Therefore, the subject matter is not intended to serve as legal or employment advice for any issue(s) that may arise in the operations of its insureds. Legal advice should always be sought from the insured’s legal counsel. Great West Casualty Company shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, action, or inaction alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the information contained herein.
