As a delivery driver, it’s up to you to make sure that food, parcels or packages are delivered to your customers safely and on time.
In this blog post, we'll discuss a few steps you can take to stay safe and reduce the risk of an accident.
1. Invest in the right insurance
Having the proper level of insurance coverage is really important for your business. It protects you and your vehicle in the event of an accident.
When choosing delivery insurance, here are a few things to consider:
- Goods in Transit Insurance: This type of insurance covers the goods you're transporting in case they're damaged, lost or stolen.
- Van Courier Insurance: Designed specifically for van drivers who deliver goods, this insurance covers your vehicle and any other people who become involved in an accident (known in the insurance world as “third parties”).
- Food Delivery Insurance: This insurance is tailored for food delivery drivers, providing coverage for your vehicle, third parties, and the items you're transporting.
Before choosing an insurance plan, make sure that you understand the costs involved and the amount of cover included. You may also want to consider pay-as-you-go insurance for more flexibility, allowing you to only pay for delivery insurance while you’re working.
2. Maintain your vehicle
Keeping your vehicle in good condition helps you to deliver a safe and smooth experience for your customers. Keep a close eye on your tyres, brakes, indicators and headlights, and fix any issues as soon as they happen.
And if you’re considering buying or leasing a new vehicle, check out our round-up of the best cars for delivery work.
3. Plan your route
Before heading out on a delivery, plan your route using a reliable route planner app. This will help you avoid traffic, road closures, and other congestion that could lead to delays or accidents. Also, planning your route ahead of time, and knowing where you’re going, allows you to stay focused on the road and avoid any last-minute, potentially dangerous decisions.
4. Drive sensibly
Sensible driving techniques can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Stay vigilant and be prepared for unexpected situations. Keep a safe following distance, obey traffic laws, and be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles on the road. Keep distractions to a minimum and never look at your phone while driving.
5. Take breaks and stay alert
Driver fatigue can lead to reduced reaction times and poor decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents. Be sure to take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and avoid driving for long stretches without rest. If you feel tired or drowsy, pull over to a safe location and take a short nap or walk. Staying alert and focused during your shifts will help you to reduce the chance of an accident.
6. Keep an eye on the weather
Driving in bad weather, like rain, snow or fog, can make working as a delivery driver difficult, even dangerous. Stay up-to-date about the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Slow down, increase your following distance, and use your vehicle's lights properly when visibility is poor.
7. Use the right safety equipment
Equip your vehicle with safety features such as a dashcam, hands-free phone holder, and a first aid kit. These tools can help you stay prepared for emergencies, and protect you in case you’re involved in an incident while working. A dashcam can also serve as evidence in case of accidents or disputes with other road users.
8. Know your limits and set boundaries
Avoid overloading your vehicle or accepting more deliveries than you can handle. Overloading can cause your vehicle to become difficult to handle, increase fuel consumption, and increase the risk of an accident. Set boundaries for your working hours and make sure you have plenty of time to complete your deliveries without feeling rushed or stressed.
9. Work on your driving skills
Stay up-to-date with the latest driving techniques and safety practices. Enrolling in a defensive driving course or road safety workshop can really help. Read up on how to improve your driving and follow tips to become a safer, more responsible driver.
10. Know your company’s policies and procedures
Understanding your company's policies and procedures can help you handle any situation that comes your way. Be aware of guidelines for handling accidents, dealing with difficult customers, and maintaining a professional image while you’re delivering.
By following these safety tips and investing in the right insurance, you'll be able to stay safe and avoid accidents while delivering food or goods.
If you’re looking for insurance, check out our range of options, including car delivery insurance, private hire insurance, hire and reward insurance, and Amazon Flex insurance. You can also check out our blog for the latest tips, news and industry updates.
Remember, staying safe requires preparation, constant learning and a positive attitude. Look after your wellbeing and the safety of others on the road, and you'll be on track for a successful career as a delivery driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of insurance do I need as a delivery driver?
As a delivery driver, you'll need hire and reward insurance, which covers you for driving goods or people in return for payment. We offer all kinds of insurance for professional drivers, including food delivery insurance and van courier insurance.
Can I use my personal car insurance for delivery work?
No, personal car insurance (also known as social, domestic and pleasure insurance) does not usually cover delivery work. You'll need the right level of hire and reward insurance to be covered while delivering goods or food.
How can I save money on my delivery insurance?
Zego flexible insurance options for all kinds of drivers, including pay-as-you-go insurance, which allows you to pay for cover by the hour when you need it. You can also help to pay less for your insurance by keeping a good, clean driving record and building up your no claims discount (NCD).
Are there any specific vehicle requirements for delivery drivers?
Vehicle requirements may vary depending on the company you work for and the type of goods you're delivering. It's important to keep your vehicle in good working condition, making sure it meets any specific requirements set by your employer or work provider.