Technology is transforming Road Safety, but we still have a long way to go
Commentary by Luke Olsen, Managing Director APAC at Microlise Heavy vehicle crashes are on the rise, and it’s not hard to see why. With more trucks on the road than ever before, driven by booming freight demand and pressure to meet tighter delivery windows, the risks are increasing. According to Transport for NSW, between 2019 and 2023, there were 4,650 injuries from heavy truck crashes, averaging 930 injuries per year. This includes 1,301 serious injuries, averaging 260 serious injuries per year. As we approach Road Safety Week 2025, this is a timely reminder for all fleet managers to review their policies and encourage safer driving practices among staff. The Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP) is a welcome step forward, with $200 million committed annually to improving road conditions and rest stop infrastructure. Since applications opened in 2023, several projects have already received funding, including Western Sydney’s first dedicated heavy vehicle rest area. But safer roads alone won’t solve the problem. To truly shift the dial on road safety, we need to pair infrastructure investment with smarter in-vehicle and planning technology. Telematics and real-time safety tools provide the visibility operators need to reduce risk, support their drivers, and meet their Chain of Responsibility obligations. Smarter route planning, better data, and reduced pressure on drivers. These are the levers that will help deliver safer outcomes across the industry. The key challenges organisations face in improving safety Driver safety is a constant balancing act. Fatigue management is a major challenge, ensuring drivers remain compliant with fatigue regulations and aren’t pushed to breach hours to meet tight SLAs. Distraction is another rising concern, with mobile phone use and even eating or drinking while driving posing serious risks, yet often going undetected without the right technology. Speed compliance also creates headaches, […]