What if one driver on your team is silently putting your whole business at risk, and you don’t even know it yet?
Identifying at-risk drivers is about preventing accidents and keeping your bottom line intact. In this blog post, we’ll explore common early warning signs of unsafe driving and how to intervene before it’s too late.
Sudden or Frequent Vehicle Incidents
Multiple minor incidents or near misses could be signs of a larger safety issue. Examples include backing accidents, low-speed collisions or repeated close calls. Even if no one is hurt, these add up.
Frequent minor incidents often indicate poor judgment or distraction, both major risks on the road. Recognizing patterns early can help address them before a serious crash occurs.
Great West Casualty Company offers Risk Control Services to assist in evaluating and mitigating such risks.
Risky Driving Behaviors Observed or Reported
Aggressive driving, speeding and tailgating are red flags for high-risk behavior. Telematics systems, dash cams and complaints from other drivers can reveal these behaviors.
These actions not only endanger the driver but also increase liability for your organization. Monitoring helps reinforce safer driving habits.
Implementing programs like Value-Driven® Driving can aid in promoting safer driving behaviors.
Decline in Physical or Mental Fitness
Changes in health or alertness can directly affect driving ability. Examples include slower reaction times, fatigue, medication side effects or vision issues.
Age, stress or personal health conditions can lead to a decline in driving performance. It’s crucial to have policies in place to reassess drivers if needed.
Resources such as the Truckers' Injury Prevention System (TIPS) can provide guidance on maintaining driver health and safety.
Disengagement or Poor Attitude Toward Safety
A lack of concern for safety protocols often signals bigger risk. Skipping vehicle inspections, resisting safety training or dismissing rules are signs to watch for.
Safety starts with having the correct mindset. A disengaged driver is more likely to take shortcuts, ignore warnings and create unsafe conditions.
Great West's Safety + Risk Control Services offer support in fostering a culture of safety within your organization.
Recognize the Signs
Recognizing early warning signs of at-risk drivers—whether it’s recurring incidents, unsafe habits, health-related concerns or a poor attitude—can prevent costly accidents and protect everyone on the road.
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The information in this article is provided as a courtesy of Great West Casualty Company and is part of the Value-Driven® Company program. Value-Driven Company was created to help educate and inform insureds so they can make better decisions, build a culture that values safety, and manage risk more effectively. To see what additional resources Great West Casualty Company can provide for its insureds, please contact your safety representative, or click below to find an agent.
Insurance Contracts are Underwritten, Administered, and Issued by: Great West Casualty Company, Old Republic Life Insurance Company, and Old Republic Union Insurance Company.
One or more Old Republic companies may provide the products and/or services described. Information presented is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute a contract or advice, including employment advice or advice to motor carriers. Please refer to the relevant insurance policy for actual terms. Products and services may not be available in all states and may be subject to change without notice. © 2026 Old Republic International Corporation. Old Republic® and the Old Republic Circle of Stars monogram are registered trademarks. All Rights Reserved.
