A new study released by Geotab Inc. highlights the need for increased support for commercial drivers to address growing concerns about their well-being and road safety. 

As driver shortages persist, the study emphasizes that investing in comprehensive driver support systems is essential for improving job satisfaction, reducing turnover, and ensuring safer roads.

Driver Shortages and High Turnover Rates Pose Financial Challenges

High turnover rates lead to significant costs for recruiting and training new drivers. According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, replacing a single driver can cost between $10,000 and $20,000. Additionally, the cost of trucking has reached an all-time high of $2.27 per mile, impacting carrier profitability and operational efficiency.

The Geotab study reveals the complex challenges commercial drivers face, many of which contribute to job dissatisfaction. A significant number of drivers report regularly exceeding the speed limit to meet job demands, while 60% say congestion has made their work more challenging. 

Additionally, 76% of drivers observe others using mobile phones, highlighting risky road behaviors that add to driver stress and safety concerns.

Industry Leaders Emphasize the Need for Driver Support Systems

"Our research shows a direct and critical link between driver well-being and the overall performance of the transportation industry," said Vik Sridhar, product leader at Geotab. "The future of the transportation industry depends on a thriving workforce. Prioritizing driver support is a strategic necessity for carriers to attract and retain drivers, leading to better business outcomes and safer roads."

These findings underscore the importance of addressing structural challenges like an aging workforce, barriers to entry for new drivers, and lifestyle demands that don’t align with trucking. Poor driving results in thousands of fatalities annually. 

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the average cost of a large truck crash involving a fatality is $3.6 million. Proactive support for drivers can reduce accident risks and improve overall performance.

Investing in Driver Support Programs for a Safer Future

Geotab's research demonstrates the importance of investing in driver support programs, promoting stress management techniques, and fostering a culture of safety within the transportation industry. By taking these steps, companies can improve road safety and gain a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining drivers.

Research findings are available in The Ripple Effects of Driver Stress on Road Safety and the Bottom Line.

Methodology, data collection, and analysis conducted by Endeavor Business Intelligence (US) on behalf of Geotab. Data collected December 20, 2024, through January 10, 2025.