Importance Of A Driver’s File 

It is a mandatory compliance requirement for a trucking business to maintain driver files. Additionally, it also allows businesses to look at it from just a compliance standpoint and improve their operations. If no records are maintained, it will be hard for the management to keep up with their business.

Driver files that are compliant and regularly updated are the cornerstone of the National Safety Code (NSC). Carriers that fail to meet the minimum requirements for driver files not only violate transportation laws, but also tend to operate without any critical safety information. For example, imagine your business hires a truck driver without verifying they
have the right license, including identifying what sort of traffic convictions they have. Ensure that the individual driving your truck is qualified and competent.

Below mentioned is the importance of maintaining driver’s files:

1. Peace of mind

Several trucking companies use a plethora of software applications to determine business performance based on the data. However, data analysis is not always the answer. Sometimes, the company can benefit from the information present in the driver’s files. A driver’s file should ideally include their driving record; if they have any prior convictions
and collisions. It gives a summary of their past performance. In the event, the driver receives a ticket or is subject to a roadside violation, the standard reaction from the management is usually anger. However, having an up-to-date driver file can give management the impression of how the driver has been performing during their time at the company.

2. Track the positives

From a compliance standpoint, a driver file focuses on recording information related to offences of the law However, it is important to track the positives as well. Being a commercial truck driver is a thankless profession and very demanding. If a company only logs the mistakes made by the driver, it can cause a lot of stress to them. Trucking companies should identify ways to recognize sustainable, reliable and safe ways to document the performance of truck drivers. Tracking the positive metrics of drivers presents the company with a balanced view of the drivers. From customer testimonials to drivers reaching certain milestones should be recorded in the driver’s file.

3. Health and safety integration

Since safety is paramount in this industry, it is imperative to talk about the driver file as a tool for occupational health and safety.

4. The correct driver for the job

Based on how a trucking business operates, it will have certain routes and tasks that can be more dangerous than others or experienced drives that have the necessary skills and experience. The information within a driver file can help management determine which drivers are best suited for the job and have the relevant experience. For instance, if you are a trucking company that hauls oversized loads, you must ensure the driver will take the necessary precautions in the form of planning routes, flashing lights and signs when needed and much more.

The important takeaway from maintaining a driver file is that it tracks driver experience, and safety infractions, including positive performance.

If you are a trucking business looking to apply for a driver qualification files course, get in touch with Trukademy today for more details.