Every 18 seconds someone is injured and every 11 minutes a person is killed due to a motor vehicle collision, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A comprehensive fleet safety program including driver training helps prevent and reduce accidents, which saves lives and money. The annual accident rate for commercial fleets is around 20% and the average cost of a fleet accident is $70,000 — almost double the cost of the typical workplace injury.

An effective fleet safety program can improve driver attentiveness, enhance safe vehicle operation, and reduce risk and liability.

Effective risk management programs must include safety training for drivers. A driver safety training program should include the following elements:

• Fleet safety policy

• Vehicle maintenance and inspection

• Driver selection process

• Ongoing training for all drivers

• Effective incident investigation

• Ride-along safety observations

Driver training can take many forms — one-on-one, behind the wheel, in-classroom, simulator-based, and online modules. The best programs utilize a blend of training to keep drivers engaged and ensure they hear the company's safety message.

Company's that implement a comprehensive fleet safety program realize the benefits of reinforcing a culture of safety. An effective program lowers the risk of corporate liability, increases the overall skill level of a fleet's drivers, reduces accidents and saves lives.