Traffic accidents triggered by drivers at work - a survey and analysis of contributing factors

This report outlines the results of a study of severe road traffic accidents in Norway triggered by drivers at work. The goal has been to examine whether and to what extent risk factors of these triggering drivers and their vehicles can be traced back to work related factors. The analysis of the database of the Accident Analysis Groups of the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) shows that speed too high for the circumstances, failure to use seat belt and insufficient information gathering were the most important risk factors in fatal accidents triggered by drivers at work. Analysis of reports from The Accident Investigation Board Norway (AIBN) and interviews with nine experts brought forth the following work related factors considered central for traffic safety: follow up of drivers' speed, driving style and use of seat belt, pay systems, safety culture, risk assessments, procedures/work descriptions and training.