Incident Prevention Checklist

Across the UK, fleet-related incidents still happen — not because operators don't care about safety, but because the systems and habits needed to prevent them aren't always in place. This checklist is designed to help fleet managers and safety leads identify the gaps that typically lead to accidents, compliance failures, or near-misses.

Before vehicles leave the depot

• Are daily walkaround checks completed and recorded digitally?
• Do drivers have a clear process for flagging and escalating defects?
• Are defect records reviewed before vehicles are signed off for use?
• Are pre-shift briefings taking place where appropriate?

Vehicle safety systems

• Are camera and DVR systems functioning and recording correctly?
• Are blind spot detection and proximity alert systems tested regularly?
• Is live-lane safety equipment active and maintained on applicable vehicles?
• Are reversing aids and manoeuvring alerts operational?

Driver behaviour and monitoring

• Is driver behaviour (speed, braking, cornering) tracked via telematics?
• Are high-risk behaviours flagged automatically and reviewed regularly?
• Is there a consistent process for coaching drivers after incidents or alerts?
• Are new drivers onboarded with a structured induction?

Incident response

• Is there a clear process for reporting and recording incidents?
• Is video footage retrieved and preserved promptly after events?
• Are incidents reviewed to identify patterns or systemic risks?
• Are near-misses recorded as well as actual incidents?

Compliance and documentation

• Are maintenance records up to date and accessible?
• Do vehicles meet current regulatory requirements (DVS, FORS, etc.)?
• Are operator and driver licences being monitored for validity?
• Is there an audit trail for safety checks and interventions?