How to Stay Safe When Driving for Work

Whether you’re using a company vehicle or your own car for work purposes, the responsibility for road safety is shared between you and your employer.

Your organisation may have policies and procedures to support your safety, but as the driver, you also have a personal duty to be fit to drive and act responsibly on the road.

Here’s how to stay safe behind the wheel.

Your Health and Driving

✅ Fit to drive?

Before any journey, ask yourself: Am I fit to drive today? If you’re feeling unwell, drowsy, or affected by alcohol, drugs, or medication, it may be safer to delay your journey.

🍷 Alcohol

Alcohol affects judgement, reaction times, and coordination. Even small amounts can impair your driving, and it’s possible to be over the legal limit the next morning after drinking the night before.

Tip: The safest option is to avoid alcohol entirely before driving.

Adults should not exceed 14 units of alcohol per week, spread over at least three days.

💊 Drugs and medicines

Some prescription or over-the-counter medicines can make you drowsy or impair concentration. Always check the label and ask your GP or pharmacist if you're unsure. Driving under the influence of drugs — including some medications — is illegal and dangerous.

😴 Tiredness

Fatigue slows your reactions and reduces your awareness. Many sleep-related crashes are high-speed incidents. Get plenty of rest, avoid large meals before driving, and build in regular breaks on longer trips.

👁 Eyesight

You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away (around 5 car lengths). Get your eyes tested every 2 years, or sooner if you notice changes in your vision.

🤒 Illness

Even minor illnesses like hay fever, migraines, or colds can reduce your focus and reaction time. If you're feeling unwell, reconsider whether you're safe to drive.

Important: Some health conditions must be reported to the DVLA. If you receive a new diagnosis, check with your doctor whether this applies to you.

You should get your eyesight checked at least once every 2 years

Safer Driving Habits

• Keep your vehicle roadworthy Check lights, tyres, wipers, washer fluid, and brakes before setting off. Employers should ensure company vehicles are well maintained.

• Buckle up Always wear a seatbelt — and make sure all passengers do too.

• Adjust your speed Drive to the conditions, not just the speed limit. Wet, icy, or congested roads often require slower speeds.

• Minimise distractions It’s illegal to use a handheld phone while driving. Set your satnav before your journey, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking at the wheel — all of which can be fatally distracting.

• Plan for the weather Pack appropriate clothing, water, and snacks — especially during extreme weather. Snow, heavy rain, and heatwaves all increase risk and can delay your journey or leave you stranded.

• Keep your distance Maintain a safe gap from the vehicle ahead. The faster you're driving, the longer your stopping distance.

Know What to Do in an Emergency

If you break down or are involved in an accident, you’ll need to know what steps to take — especially in a company vehicle.

• Familiarise yourself with your employer’s procedure for accidents or breakdowns

• Keep a printed copy of the policy in the glove compartment

• Save any relevant contact numbers in your phone or keep them in the vehicle

Our sources and for more information: https://www.rospa.com/road-safety https://www.hse.gov.uk/roadsafety/employer/index.htm https://www.think.gov.uk/campaign/vehicle-safety-checks/

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