Proactive driver coaching tools

Consistent coaching is the key to a successful driver coaching program. It’s important to have drivers familiarize themselves with coaches to start a collaborative relationship and to identify what events to prioritize for coaching. Use 1:1 coaching sessions to quickly view a summary of all behaviors that require coaching for a driver, drill down into driver behaviors and view footage of events related to that behavior. Coaching based on repeated behaviors saves time and is more effective, since it makes repeated habits easier to identify.

In-cab coaching notifies drivers on the road in real-time when incidents, such as tailgating, occur. This allows them to self-correct the behavior.

Manager-led coaching involves coaching in combination with dash cams and telematics. It involves reviewing events in a timely manner and ensuring coaches are assigned to proactively address the risky driving behaviors.

With both in-cab and manager-led coaching, it’s important to clearly outline a process among your safety managers and coaches, involving:

• What events will be coached versus not coached

• How and when coaching occurs

• Zero-exception behaviors

• Processes for disciplinary actions.

Before deploying any hardware, hold a Q&A session with drivers. Create an open forum where drivers feel comfortable asking questions and raising concerns, and make sure to explain your company’s safety goals and policies so that drivers understand where the change is coming from.

Dash cams are meant for driver protection and safety. Dispel misunderstandings by explaining how safety events are detected and how footage can be accessed, and be clear about who can access the footage - only certain administrators in the company can access footage - video is only uploaded when there is a safety event, or if there is a request to retrieve footage for exoneration or insurance purposes.

It’s important to set clear expectations for your rewards program. Drivers should know exactly how they’re being evaluated and where they stand compared to their peers. You can use Samsara Safety Scores as the foundation of your rewards program to maximize transparency and eliminate any concerns about fairness.

To maximize engagement, the rewards you choose should be attractive and relevant. Make sure you customize the incentives to fit your company culture. Consider announcing the winner during team meetings, creating a safe driver “wall of honor” in the break room, or even sending a company-wide email congratulating the safe drivers. Underperforming drivers should be made aware that this new program is their chance to make a change and should be given the resources, training, and coaching to get them there. Ensure that all participants know they have an equal opportunity to succeed by distributing rewards monthly or quarterly rather than yearly.