Auto losses, whether from minor collisions, property damage or more serious accidents, can have a major impact on a municipality’s operations, costs and reputation.
As of September 2025, members of the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund have reported 502 auto physical damage claims since the beginning of the year, which is a reduction from the 608 claims reported at the same time last year. Unfortunately, the amount paid out is about the same when comparing the two years.
The good news is that some SCMIRF members have successfully reduced their auto-related losses through proactive measures that emphasize training, accountability and technology.
These are some effective strategies members are using to build a culture of safe driving and reduce losses across their municipal fleets:
Track and Discuss Loss Metrics Regularly
Visibility drives improvement. Some members now include auto loss metrics as a regular topic in their weekly or monthly safety meetings. Reviewing recent incidents, near misses and overall trends helps keep vehicle safety front of mind for all employees. This data-driven approach allows teams to identify problem areas early and take corrective action before losses are repeated or they occur.
Celebrate Success – Track Days “Auto-loss-free”
The Aiken Department of Public Safety posts the number of days since the last auto loss. This can be a surprisingly powerful motivator, as it helps reinforce positive behaviors and reminds employees that safe driving is a shared responsibility.
Use Telematics for Driver Coaching
Telematics systems provide valuable insights into driver behavior, such as speeding, harsh braking and cornering. The Town of Fort Mill is using telematic data to identify trends, provide coaching and reward safe driving habits. When paired with a constructive coaching program, telematics can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of auto losses.
Provide Regular Driver Training
A structured driver training program helps ensure all operators maintain their skills and knowledge over time. Some members require completion of a defensive driving course every three years, supplemented with annual e-learning modules through LocalGovU in between. This consistent training cadence reinforces defensive driving techniques and keeps safety standards fresh in employees’ minds. The City of Greer requires all newly hired employees to take National Safety Council’s four-hour Defensive Driving Course.
Test Competency for Commercial Vehicle Operators
For employees who drive large commercial or specialty vehicles, competency testing is critical. Employers are increasingly requiring drivers to demonstrate they can safely maneuver larger vehicles — especially in tight or congested areas — before being cleared to operate them independently. The City of Aiken makes it a priority to require all drivers to demonstrate competency in operating large commercial vehicles before being assigned to drive.
Offer Hands-on Training for Backing and Spotting
Backing accidents are one of the most common sources of vehicle damage. Providing hands-on training sessions for backing maneuvers — and requiring the use of spotters whenever backing occurs — can dramatically reduce these types of incidents. Establishing clear hand signals and communication protocols between drivers and spotters is also key.
Install Alarms and Safety Devices
Technology can help prevent accidents before they happen. For example, the City of Mauldin’s sanitation department has installed alarms on hydraulic truck arms to alert workers when the arm is not in the appropriate position and the vehicle is in drive. Audible and visual warnings add another layer of safety and awareness during vehicle operation.
All of these strategies are offered by different members, but collectively these practices along with others build a culture of safe driving. Reducing auto losses isn’t about a single policy — it’s about creating a consistent culture of awareness, training and accountability. Members that make safety a daily priority and involve employees in continuous improvement efforts often see measurable reductions in both losses and costs.
For those who like to meet with a loss control consultant to discuss reducing auto losses or any topic related to safety or risk management, contact Risk Management Services Loss Control staff at losscontrol@masc.sc.