Fleet safety is the backbone of every successful transportation company. With evolving regulations, new technologies, and the ongoing need to recruit and retain top drivers, improving driver performance remains a key focus for carriers of all sizes. In a recent Transtar Talks webinar, industry experts Amanda Gallegos from Stewart Transport and Buda Handly, from Western Transport Logistics shared their experiences and best practices for building a strong fleet safety program.
From hiring and training drivers to implementing technology and fostering a safety culture, here are the key takeaways from their discussion.
As the saying goes, “You hire your problems when you don’t screen your team well.” Simply putting a driver in a seat without proper vetting can lead to costly mistakes down the road. Both Stewart Transport and Western Transport Logistics have structured, multi-step hiring processes to ensure they bring in the right candidates.
The investment in thorough hiring and onboarding reduces turnover, improves safety, and ensures drivers are aligned with company values from day one.
Event recorders (dash cams) are among the most valuable tools for defending against bogus claims, coaching drivers, and improving fleet safety.
How Stewart and Western Transport Use Event Recorders:
By using event recorders as a coaching tool rather than a disciplinary measure, both companies have seen significant improvements in safety and CSA scores.
HOS compliance is a challenge for many fleets, especially after the temporary pandemic-related exemptions. Both Stewart and Western Transport took proactive steps to improve compliance and reduce violations.
Eliminating Personal Conveyance (PC) Abuse: Western Transport removed PC mode after noticing drivers misusing it. Instead, they focused on better trip planning and communication.
Shifting Coaching from Safety to Training: Stewart Transport found that when training managers (not safety staff) handled HOS coaching, violations dropped by 40%. Drivers saw it as learning, not discipline, making them more receptive.
Ongoing Education: Both companies offer refresher courses and weekly audits to help drivers stay up to date on regulations and ELD best practices.
By treating HOS compliance as a coaching opportunity rather than a punitive issue, fleets can encourage drivers to self-correct and take responsibility for managing their time effectively.
With oral fluid testing recently approved, fleets are preparing to integrate this faster, more secure drug testing method into their programs.
Why Oral Testing Matters:
Both Stewart Transport and Western Transport enforce a strict zero-tolerance policy for drug and alcohol violations. They also emphasize reasonable suspicion training for managers, ensuring they can identify and address potential substance use issues before they become safety risks.
Ensuring drivers maintain their CDL and medical card status is essential for keeping fleets compliant and avoiding last-minute disruptions.
By implementing proactive renewal processes, fleets reduce downtime and avoid unnecessary risks.
"Knowledge is power." – Amanda Gallegos
Drivers often lack a deep understanding of liability and FMCSA regulations. Carriers should focus on ongoing education and clear communication to equip drivers with the knowledge they need to make safe decisions.
"Consistency is key." – Buda Handly
Safety policies should be applied fairly and consistently. Drivers notice when companies make exceptions, which can undermine trust and accountability.
"Engage the family." – Buda Handly
Recognizing drivers in front of their families fosters loyalty. Western Transport sends handwritten postcards to drivers' spouses, thanking them for supporting their loved one’s commitment to safety. This small gesture strengthens driver morale and retention.
Stewart Transport plans to enhance their driver scoring system to provide real-time feedback and incentives for safe driving habits.
Western Transport is evaluating new home-time structures to improve work-life balance while maintaining operational efficiency.
Both companies remain committed to continuous improvement, leveraging data-driven insights to create a safer, more supportive environment for their drivers.
Improving driver performance isn't just about rules and regulations—it’s about investing in people, using technology effectively, and creating a culture where safety is a shared priority. By focusing on hiring the right drivers, leveraging event recorders, ensuring HOS compliance, enforcing strict drug policies, and fostering a strong safety culture, fleets can reduce risk, boost retention, and build a safer, more successful operation.
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1️⃣ What challenges has your fleet faced in improving driver performance?
2️⃣ How does your company use event recorders—more for discipline or for coaching?
3️⃣ What strategies have worked best in your organization for ensuring HOS compliance?
We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your insights in the comments below.
