Road Safety Week: why it matters to your business

Road Safety Week, led by the charity Brake, is the UK’s biggest annual road safety campaign. It’s a time to spotlight the human cost of road accidents – over 1,700 lives lost and 30,000 serious injuries each year on UK roads. But beyond the tragic statistics, it’s also an opportunity for businesses to reflect on how road safety directly impacts their operations, reputation and insurance premiums.

The link between road safety and insurance

Whether you operate a fleet of vehicles or rely on staff commuting daily, road safety is a business issue. Here’s how it connects to your insurance:

• Fewer accidents = fewer claims: Every incident – from minor collisions to serious crashes – can trigger a claim. Over time, a high claims history can push up your premiums or even affect your insurability.
• Driver behaviour matters: Insurers increasingly use telematics and driver monitoring to assess risk. Businesses that promote safe driving habits may benefit from lower premiums and better policy terms.
• Goods in Transit and Commercial Motor Insurance: If your business transports goods, Road Safety Week is a great time to review your Goods in Transit cover. Damaged or stolen cargo due to unsafe driving or poor route planning can lead to costly claims. Safer practices help to reduce that risk.

Risk management: a win-win strategy

Investing in road safety isn’t just about compliance – it’s about protecting your people and your profits. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Review and update your driver training programs: Make sure all drivers understand speed limits, fatigue management and vehicle maintenance protocols.
• Implement vehicle safety checks: Regular inspections can prevent breakdowns and accidents, especially in commercial fleets.
• Use data to improve safety: Telematics systems can help you monitor driving behaviour and identify areas for improvement.
• Communicate your policies clearly: Ensure all staff know your expectations around road safety – and the consequences of unsafe behaviour.

In conclusion

Road Safety Week isn’t just about awareness – it’s about action. For businesses, that action can lead to safer roads, healthier employees and more affordable insurance. Let’s make every journey a safer one.