The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety

Discover fresh insights, compelling videos, and a deeper look into what’s happening across Geotab offices worldwide.

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver Risks

Financial Risks

Recommendations

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety

A road safety survey of professional truck and van drivers across France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 1

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver Risks

Financial Risks

Recommendations

MESSAGE FROM EDWARD KULPERGER

The roads of Europe are the arteries of our economies, and at the heart of their smooth functioning are the professional drivers who navigate them daily. At Geotab, our focus extends from technology to the individuals who keep our goods moving. Recent research by Geotab, conducted in partnership with Opinion Matters, has illuminated a critical issue demanding our collective attention: the increasing stress experienced by truck and van drivers. An overwhelming 91% of drivers report that work- related stress negatively impacts their ability to perform their duties safely. This has profound consequences for their wellbeing, for the safety of all road users, and for the health of our economies. The pressures they face don’t only pose a danger to themselves and other drivers but also contribute to increased operational costs for businesses, strain fleet efficiency, and elevate risk on our roads. We understand that for fleet operators, this translates into tangible financial burdens, from rising insurance costs to greater potential for legal liabilities and increased fuel and maintenance. Perhaps most concerning is that nearly half (47%) of the drivers surveyed have considered leaving their profession in the past year. In an environment already challenged by driver recruitment and retention, this level of attrition poses a significant threat to the economic fabric of Europe and the UK.

Our global perspective gained from over 4.7 million connected vehicles and 25 years of operation, enables us to recognise the transformative potential of data. By harnessing insights derived from vehicle data and leveraging the power of AI, it is possible to actively support safer driving behaviours and optimize fleet operations in a way that prioritises the driver experience. This research, focusing on commercial drivers across France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and the UK, underscores a fundamental truth: the future of road safety is inextricably linked to the wellbeing of those behind the wheel. My call to action is this: Let us, as an industry, technology providers, fleet operators, policymakers, and indeed, all who share the road, commit to understanding and addressing the root causes of driver stress. By prioritising their wellbeing, we not only improve their lives but also pave the way for safer roads and a more resilient future for European mobility.

The Weight on Our Roads: Prioritising Driver Wellbeing for a Safer Future

Every Journey a Safe Return. Edward Kulperger SVP EMEA at Geotab

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 2

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver Risks

Financial Risks

Recommendations

Driving Change Begins with Protecting Drivers

95%

99% Ireland

of commercial drivers in the EU and UK say road safety has declined over the past five years.

97% UK

97% Netherlands

The consistency of concern across countries points to systemic road safety issues within the EU and UK.

94% Germany

96% France

95% Italy

89% Spain

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 3

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver risks

Financial Risks

Recommendations

What Drivers Are Seeing Reveals a Crisis in Motion

Across Europe, dangerous habits behind the wheel are being noticed by professional drivers.

Construction congestion is also recorded as a major issue interfering with job completion.

Mobile phone use of other drivers topped the list of risky behaviours noticed by all respondents (42%), especially in Italy (59%), Spain (53%). In the UK, poor driving by others was the biggest complaint (44%).

Nearly two-thirds (64%) of all respondents report too much traffic or roadworks making it difficult to do the job, particularly in Spain (78%) and Ireland (74%).

Spain

Italy - phone use

78%

59%

78%

59%

Ireland

Spain - phone use

74%

53%

74%

Italy

UK - others’ poor driving

64%

44%

64%

France - phone use

61%

41%

61%

Germany

Netherlands - phone use

60%

39%

60%

Netherlands

Ireland - ebikes and scooters speeding

59%

38%

59%

38%

France

Germany - dangerous cycling

36%

50%

36%

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 4

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver Risks

Financial Risks

Recommendations

When Pressure Behind the Wheel Compromises Safety

70% of respondents believe stress and mental health are contributing to road dangers:

91% of all respondents say stress is negatively affecting their driving:

87%

94%

Italy

Spain

80%

93%

Netherlands

Italy

92%

73%

Ireland

70%

91%

Average

France

66%

91%

Spain

Germany

91%

62%

Germany

61%

90%

Netherlands

61%

88%

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 5

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver Risks

Financial Risks

Recommendations

69% of respondents support new technology that helps improve their driving performance:

47% of all respondents have considered leaving their job in the past year:

80%

66%

Ireland

Spain

77%

58%

Netherlands

Italy

73%

54%

Germany

Ireland

69%

47%

Average

67%

46%

France

Germany

62%

38%

Spain

France

61%

35%

Italy

Netherlands

61%

34%

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 6

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver Risks

Financial risks

Recommendations

The Hidden Financial Risks of an Overstretched Workforce

Poor driving practices, such as speeding, overloading, and harsh vehicle handling, can significantly increase maintenance costs and accelerate vehicle wear and tear. In congested environments, aggressive driving in stop-and-go traffic can reduce fuel efficiency by 10–40%, adding to operational expenses. Poor road conditions, including potholes and uneven surfaces, worsen these issues by increasing fuel consumption, vehicle downtime, and delays. The cost of operating commercial fleets across Europe continues to rise due to inflation, fluctuating fuel prices, and increasing vehicle costs. Beyond the financial burden, unsafe driving behaviours carry serious safety implications, contributing to a concerning number of road accidents each year. The impact of a major incident can be devastating—both in human and financial terms. Driver wellbeing and performance also play a critical role. Elevated stress levels and inefficiencies not only compromise safety but also contribute to high turnover rates. With millions of truck driver positions unfilled and a growing generational split among drivers , neglecting driver wellbeing ultimately affects both the bottom line and the safety of road users across the region.

Self-reported speeding: 1 in 2 respondents said they regularly need to break the speed limit to complete the job on schedule.

64% Ireland

62% Netherlands

59% Germany

46% UK

41% Spain

40% France

39% Italy

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 7

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver Risks

Financial Risks

Recommendations

Technology, Training, and Trust: A Roadmap for Safer Fleets

Telematics solutions: Data for safer roads

Driver-focused apps: Empowering drivers with real-time support

Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)

Telematics isn’t just about tracking a vehicle—it’s about understanding a driver’s behavior, the performance of the vehicle, and real-time road conditions. By leveraging this data, fleet managers can intervene proactively, addressing risky behaviors before they lead to costly accidents. This approach can also support drivers by ensuring compliance with regulations like ELDs, helping them avoid unnecessary stress while staying on track with their schedules.

Imagine an app that offers not just driving feedback, but holistic support—real-time driving tips, mental health resources, and even stress management techniques. These apps can serve as a “companion” on the road, providing tools drivers need to stay safe, stay focused, and stay happy. Personalized driver coaching, delivered in-app, offers tailored tips and strategies based on individual driving habits, helping drivers improve their skills and stay focused on the road.

By integrating ADAS technologies, such as lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, drivers can gain an extra layer of support on the road. These systems help prevent accidents, lower stress levels, and make long hours behind the wheel safer and more comfortable. With less need to constantly react to every road hazard, drivers can stay focused and calm, improving their overall driving performance and quality of life on the road.

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 8

Introduction

Protecting Drivers

Driver Risks

Financial Risks

Recommendations

Holistic Fleet Safety: Uniting Technology and Human Support

Virtual reality (VR) training: Safe, engaging, and effective skill building

Autonomous driving technologies: The future of stress-free driving

The most effective fleet safety strategies emerge when advanced technology and dedicated human support are deeply integrated. Insights from telematics and AI, which can pinpoint critical risk factors, directly enhance personalised coaching and mental health resources. Weaving these elements together cultivates a culture of trust and continuous improvement where drivers feel understood and valued. This approach ultimately unlocks operational excellence, boosts engagement, and builds a truly resilient, safety-first environment for everyone.

What if training could be both fun and incredibly effective? VR simulations allow drivers to face high-pressure scenarios in a controlled environment, honing their skills without the risk. Whether it’s navigating tricky weather conditions or dealing with an emergency, VR provides drivers with the chance to practice and improve in ways that traditional methods can’t match. This innovative approach makes learning both engaging and impactful.

While fully autonomous vehicles are still on the horizon, we’re already seeing advancements in features like lane-keeping assist and self-parking that significantly reduce the stress and mental load of driving. These technologies allow drivers to focus on the road with more confidence, ultimately leading to a safer and more relaxed driving experience.

These technologies enhance fleet efficiency and reduce costs by optimizing operations and improving safety. By leveraging real-time data, fleets can proactively address issues before they lead to accidents, reducing insurance premiums and repair expenses. Driver assistance tools, training programs, and monitoring systems minimize the risk of costly mistakes while improving driver performance. With the help of these innovations, fleets can streamline operations, lower overhead costs, and maintain a safer, more productive environment for drivers, ultimately leading to long-term savings.

The Unseen Toll: Driver Stress and Road Safety 9

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