Safe Driving Recognition Programs Can Boost Safe Driving 

In local government operations, safe driving is critical for protecting employees and the public, as well as the municipality’s resources. Whether operating a utility truck, fire apparatus or a police car, every trip on the road carries risk. Providing official recognition of employees for their safe driving history can be a powerful tool to encourage safe behaviors and reduce collisions — if done the right way.  

A well-designed safe driving recognition program celebrates employees whose driving records demonstrate an ongoing commitment to driving safely and defensively. These programs should never discourage accident reporting or mask incident, but instead focus on employees who have consistently demonstrated responsible, defensive driving over a defined period.  

When employees see that their commitment to safe driving is valued, it reinforces those habits and encourages peers to follow those practices. Recognition can also help boost morale, strengthen team culture and reduce staff turnover. Most importantly, it promotes a proactive approach to risk management.  

To ensure a recognition program supports safety rather than suppresses reporting, consider taking these steps:   

• Use objective criteria. Recognize employees who have had no preventable vehicle incidents or driving-related violations in the given period.  

• Promote transparency. Clearly communicate that the program does not penalize accident reporting — its purpose is to reward safe driving performance.  

• Include training reinforcement. Pair recognition with ongoing driver safety training, so employees stay current and are reminded about best practices.  

• Recognize teams as well as individuals. Celebrating an entire crew or department can promote a collective responsibility for safety.  

• Keep awards meaningful, but modest. Options can include certificates, gift cards or public acknowledgement at staff meetings or in newsletters.  

Recognition can also include events to celebrate safe drivers. For example, a public works department may host an annual Safe Driver Breakfast to honor employees who have gone the entire year accident-free. A police department may provide quarterly awards to officers with clean driving records, highlighting their accomplishments in a quarterly newsletter.   

Recognition programs cost little compared to the savings in reduced accidents, claims and downtime.  Over time, a culture that values safety creates few injuries, protects municipal property and enhances public trust. When designed thoughtfully, safe driving recognition programs can be a win-win: employees feel appreciated for their professional driving skills, and the municipality benefits from few incidents and a stronger safety culture. It’s not about perfection, but is rather about consistently making choices that protect people, property and local communities. 

For those who like to meet with a loss control consultant to discuss the implementation of a recognition program or any topic related to safety or risk management, contact Risk Management Services Loss Control staff at losscontrol@masc.sc.