Decreasing driver risk

Learning how data can be used to zero in on safety concerns about driver behaviour and to develop models for running a safer workplace vehicle fleet will be significantly easier from now on, thanks to an online course being launched at FleetRisk.com.au.

Noting that motor vehicles are involved in 46% of injuries and fatalities in the Australian workplace, FleetRisk co-founder Michael Graham said that being able to undertake proactive risk management based on a better understanding of the implications of data and telematics will be a big advantage to brokers and insurers.

The risk management solution combines online assessments of cognitive skills and personality with Mercurien’s BetterDriver telematics platform. The combined data is used to create objective and predictive analytics models that can be used to assess, identify and develop driver skills and behaviour for safer use of motor vehicles in the workplace. 

“This online course makes the connection between proactive risk management, driver behaviour and telematics. It will help brokers to stay out in front of this kind of risk management technology,” said Duncan Ferguson, general manager of FleetRisk.

“We are looking to help brokers prepare for change, seize the proactive fleet risk management opportunity and strengthen client relationships in the process. It takes between 45 and 60 minutes to complete and has a pass hurdle for professional development points from the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF),” said Ferguson.

“Fleets we work with have been hugely successful in addressing safety concerns, with significant drops in speeding and claims,” said Graham. “We find that when drivers are given objective feedback they improve, and this course is aimed at equipping a broker to have the initial conversation with their client — often they don’t even start due to an absence of familiarity with how to use data to help clients run a safer fleet with less claims and injury.”

The course is now online at Fleetrisk.com.au and available to any organisation, insurer or broker looking to understand how data can be used to decrease driver risk, client risk and claims experience in commercial motor fleets. The course is called ‘Driver-Behaviour Data & Insurance’ and ANZIIF awards 1.5 CIP points for successful completion.