Data from DfT revealed that the number of collisions attributed to drug-driving has increased by 170% in less than a decade. With the highest level of drink-driving for 14 years.

Association of Fleet Professionals have issued a new drink and drug driving guidance. The AFP guidelines cover the need for a drug and drink driving policy, what its contents should include, rules for grey fleet drivers, and the importance of recognising that prescription and over the counter drugs, as well as illegal ones, can be an issue behind the wheel.

“Some cold and flu remedies can cause drowsiness, and drivers should be made aware of the dangers of taking them before getting behind the wheel, just because a medication is legal and bought over the counter doesn’t mean that it won’t have an impact on your driving[PH1] .” – Association of Fleet professionals

The AFP Drugs and Alcohol Guidance document is available to the organisation’s members from the members area of its resource’s portal.

How can fleet managers tackle drug- and drink-driving?

Drug and drink driving pose significant risks to fleet operations, endangering the safety of drivers, other road users, and company assets. For fleet managers, addressing this challenge is not just a matter of compliance but a critical aspect of fostering a culture of safety and responsibility.

• Developing and Communicating a Zero-Tolerance Policy: Implement a strict zero-tolerance policy for drink and drug driving within the organisation. Ensure all employees are aware of the consequences of violations, which might include suspension, dismissal, or legal action.

• Using Technology to Identify Impaired Driving: Telematics systems can monitor driving patterns and flag erratic behaviour, such as sudden braking, swerving, or speeding, which might indicate impairment. Additionally, in-vehicle cameras can provide real-time insights into driver behaviour, offering an extra layer of safety.

• By integrating technologies such as Driver fatigue detection designed to identify both substance impairment and fatigue-related issues, fleet managers can address these challenges in a unified manner, ensuring driver safety and operational efficiency.

For fleet managers, impaired driving extends beyond drink and drug use to include driver fatigue, a less obvious but equally dangerous risk. Fatigue is estimated to cause 6% of all crashes in Britain, though this figure may be underreported as police cannot test for drowsiness. Like substance impairment, fatigue diminishes driver attention and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of collision. (brakes Stats)

Identifying Drowsiness with AI Cameras to Avoid Collisions

• Real-Time Detection: AI cameras can detect fatigue in real-time by analysing behaviours such as head nodding, prolonged idling, yawning, and rubbing eyes.

• Proactive Alerts: In-cab alerts remind drivers to stay vigilant, while real-time email and text notifications keep safety managers informed.

• Coaching Opportunities: The safety inbox can be used to identify instances of drowsiness and provide targeted coaching for drivers to improve safety practices.