Trucking Safety I Is for the Interactive Driver
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Vehicles -> subcategory Other.
Trucking Safety: The Interactive Driver
Summary
Trucking companies are significantly reducing accidents and turnover rates by incorporating behavioral evaluations in their hiring processes. This article explores the importance of the extroverted, people-oriented driver.Introduction
Research indicates that a driver's behavioral style and attitude are more reliable indicators of safe driving practices than their safety training level. A 1993 study by Behavioral-Values Research Associates found notable differences in behavior and attitude between injured and non-injured workers.Behavioral Assessments in Trucking
Trucking companies using behavioral assessments to pre-screen drivers have seen a remarkable decrease in accident rates and costs, alongside improved driver retention. These assessments evaluate drivers based on four behavioral traits: Dominant (D), Influencing (I), Steadiness (S), and Cautious/Compliant (C).- Dominant (D): How drivers tackle problems and challenges.
- Influencing (I): Drivers’ social interactions and influence on others.
- Steadiness (S): Response to environmental pace.
- Cautious/Compliant (C): Adherence to rules and regulations.
The Core I Driver
DISC assessments rate applicants in these four areas from 0% to 100%. A score above 50% is high; below 50% is low. This article focuses on the Influencing (I) factor in drivers.The BVRA study highlighted significant differences in the D, S, and C styles between injured and non-injured workers. However, no major differences were noted in the I factor. Despite this, it's recommended that trucking companies consider drivers low in the I style for specific roles.
High vs. Low I Factor
- High I Factor: Drivers tend to be talkative, sociable, and easily distracted, especially during social interactions. They might get bored on long hauls and take extended breaks for conversations.- Low I Factor: These drivers are introverted, prefer solitude, and focus better on driving tasks without needing social interaction.
Balancing Interaction Needs
Some companies prefer drivers with a moderate to high I factor due to customer interaction requirements. Drivers who can engage well with others, while maintaining focus, are an asset in customer-facing roles.If sociability is a priority for your company, consider applicants with an I ranking above the midline. If you seek focused loners, opt for those lower in the I scale.
Conclusion
Look out for future articles where we explore drivers with high S and C factors. If you missed our previous article on the Core D driver, contact us for a copy.---
© 2006 Annette Estes. All rights reserved. Reprinting permitted with full text and tagline inclusion.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Trucking Safety I Is for the Interactive Driver.
You can browse and read all the articles for free. If you want to use them and get PLR and MRR rights, you need to buy the pack. Learn more about this pack of over 100 000 MRR and PLR articles.