Driver Training Solutions

S.M.A.R.T. defensive driving training for commercial and municipal fleets

In a landmark naturalistic driving study that recorded real-world behavior inside instrumented vehicles, researchers found that human factors played a significant role in 93% of crashes and near-crashes (source: Science Direct). Many of these involved recognition errors, poor decision-making or performance mistakes. Discover how a S.M.A.R.T. defensive driving training online course - especially when paired with a simulator - can help reduce errors and improve fleet driver performance.

A man drives a truck early in the morning

Key challenges and solutions for defensive driving performance gaps

Challenge: Limited resources minimize training scenario opportunities

Traditional defensive driving training does not fully encompass all potential scenarios that can happen on the road. It is limited by the weather, type of day and nearby environments, which limits the amount of training drivers can receive. Safety-conscious employers simply don’t have unlimited resources to address all possible scenarios and environments.

Solution: Digital training scenarios offer varied experiences

Our S.M.A.R.T. defensive driving course allows drivers to safely explore countless situations. They can drive through various weather conditions or environments to gain a mental picture of what it could be like. When paired with our simulators, drivers can practice defensive driving through the simulator’s real-time resistance and feedback, which changes depending on the scenario’s elements.

Challenge: Emergency driving skills diminish due to a lack of use

Thankfully, situations that require emergency driving skills don’t occur often, but that means those high-risk skills are not often practiced. This lack of use can affect drivers’ decision-making during crisis events. While regular classroom refreshers can help, it can be daunting to recall lessons and make split-second decisions while utilizing forgotten skills.

Solution: Put the S.M.A.R.T. theory into practice

Build your drivers’ decision-making skills with a S.M.A.R.T. driving course. Use our online course for a refresher on the theory and our simulators to put theory into practice. Repeated practice builds muscle memory and allows drivers to make quick decisions. In the event of an emergency, drivers will have the confidence to make the right decision to keep themselves safe.

Challenge: Generic, static lessons don’t change behavior behind the wheel

Defensive driving is active. Classroom lessons are passive, and it can be challenging for even engaged learners to connect generic training to real-world scenarios when they’re actually on the road. No matter how passionate and knowledgeable your trainers are, this disconnect can impart textbook knowledge without influencing actual driving behavior.

Solution: Scenario-based training connects directly with the road experience

Driver Training Solutions offers a scenario-based defensive driving training course, which is more interactive than traditional lessons. The software engages learners as their decisions directly impact simulations in real time. Our simulators transform it all into experiential learning where participants feel like they are really on the road.

Learn more about simulated training for defensive driving. Contact our representatives for a consultation.

Why choose Driver Training Solutions for S.M.A.R.T. defensive driving courses?

Experienced trainers

All Driver Training Solutions trainers have years of experience both as drivers and trainers. This provides an element of real-world experience to their training. Our trainers are also experienced with our simulators and know how to use them harmoniously to ensure top-quality training.

Works on any Driver Training Solutions simulator

Our S.M.A.R.T. defense driving course operates on all our simulators. We can work with trucking fleets, first responders, delivery drivers and any other type of driving fleet. Our simulator provides realistic physics for the specific vehicle your drivers will operate, making the transition to the road easier.

Customized training to your industry

Firetruck operators, snowplow drivers, utility technicians and delivery teams all face unique challenges - from vehicle size and weight distribution to specialized equipment and extreme weather. Our S.M.A.R.T. truck driver defensive driving training adapts to those realities by incorporating industry-specific scenarios and hazards into the training. Your drivers learn skills that match the vehicles they operate and the conditions they encounter every day.

Harnesses the power of experiential learning

Experiential learning allows participants to learn through interactive experiences, which has been proven to improve critical thinking skills. Our scenario-based courses put drivers in the active position of controlling how a scenario ends through their actions. When paired with a simulator, the lesson becomes more physically engaging.

S.M.A.R.T. defensive driving

Driver Training Solutions’ defensive driving course teaches drivers how to react to other motorists’ behaviors and environmental factors. They will know what to do to keep themselves safe and stay on task.

Curriculum includes:

Decision driving
Lane changes
Negotiating intersections
Distracted driving

Frequently asked questions

What scenarios should be included in a defensive driving simulator for heavy vehicles?

Scenarios should include controlling the vehicle while stopping suddenly, changing lanes safely and driving on slippery roads and in adverse weather conditions.

How does simulator-based defensive driving training compare to traditional classroom courses?

A simulator-based defensive driving training offers a more interactive experience compared to traditional classroom courses. A simulator lets drivers practice what they are taught, giving them an experiential learning experience.

How can safety managers customize defensive driving training to their routes, weather and incident history?

Safety managers can customize defensive driving training by speaking to a Driver Training Solutions expert. They will help you tailor your training to meet your drivers' needs.

What metrics should fleets track after implementing defensive driving training?

The metrics fleets should track after implementing a defensive driving training are accident frequency, driver performance and claims frequency.

How can public transit agencies reduce bus collisions with defensive driving training?

Public transit agencies can reduce bus collisions with defensive driving training by having drivers practice reacting to other drivers' behaviors and sharpening their fundamental driving skills.