FLEET DRIVER SELECTION: HOW DO YOU PICK THE GOOD ONES, AVOID THE BAD ONES?

The complicated task of what criteria of driver performance is to be used in fleet driver selecting and training is addressed. Driver performance is essentially the sum of traffic knowledge, vehicle control or procedural skills, and traffic-related risk acceptance. Research shows that driver performance influences driver behavior, but does not control it. Driver-related factors evident in most preventable collisions are listed and discussed. Skill, perception, risk index, experience and exposure are all vital elements of driver performance. The measurement approaches used by fleet operators who have been most successful in selecting and training drivers, involve a combination of tests and data which are briefly discussed. Since driver training is expensive, it is important that the aptitude and potential of candidates be assessed before selection for training. Expectations and limitations that must be set for this task are listed. Where possible, managers must select drivers who have been trained in accredited training schools. The importance is also noted of on-going, in-service driver testing and training programs.