The Story Begins:

Last Thursday at the convention, I heard a story about Ade, who is a smart entrepreneur from the lively streets of Lagos, Nigeria. He had a growing group of commercial vehicles that seemed like they were about to become very successful. He believed his business was on an upward trajectory but one day, something really bad happened, and it was all because of Chidi, the new driver Ade had hired.

He (Ade) found himself in a heap of trouble. Chidi had a history of breaking traffic rules, and it all led to a serious accident while he was working. This made Ade realize that choosing a driver for your business is not just about their qualifications and how they look on the surface. It’s about protecting your assets and keeping the good reputation of your company strong.

In the pulsating heart of Nigeria’s urban landscape, where business is the lifeblood of the streets, the role of your commercial vehicle’s driver is pivotal. They are the conduits through which your business takes life. But choosing the right driver is not merely a decision; it’s a responsibility laden with the potential for either soaring success or harrowing consequences. This blog post is your essential guide to recognizing the red flags that can help you steer clear of trouble and make the right choice.

Red Flag #1: Hiring A Driver with a String of Traffic Violations:
In Nigeria, traffic regulations are enforced to ensure road safety. So, when you’re reviewing a driver’s record and notice a series of traffic violations, that’s a glaring red flag. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), A total of 32,617 persons lost their lives to road traffic crashes in Nigeria from 2016 to 2021, resulting in 65,053 accidents across the country. Ensuring your driver has a clean record should be a non-negotiable priority. If you get this wrong, you’ve gotten every other thing wrong.

Red Flag #2: Hiring A Driver with Inadequate Training and Qualifications:
It’s tempting to hire the first driver who walks in with a license but don’t be too hasty. Adequate training and qualifications matter significantly. In Nigeria, where issues like overloading and overspeeding are widespread on the roads, having a well-trained driver can be your best defense against accidents.

Here’s why:
In Nigeria’s bustling cities like Lagos, heavy traffic, erratic road conditions, and congested streets are part of the daily grind. A well-trained driver not only understands the rules of the road but also knows how to navigate these challenging conditions safely. They can anticipate potential dangers and respond appropriately.

Moreover, in a country with diverse terrains and weather conditions, a skilled driver can adapt to different driving environments. From the bustling urban streets to the more rugged rural roads, the ability to handle these varied conditions can make a significant difference in the safety and efficiency of your commercial vehicle operations.
So, when selecting a driver for your business, take the time to evaluate their training and experience. It’s not just about having a license; it’s about having the skills and knowledge to protect your assets and maintain the stellar reputation of your enterprise.

Red Flag #3: Hiring A Driver with No Proper Documentation:
In the complex world of Nigerian commerce, where regulations and taxes seem to change like the weather, keeping proper documentation is vital. If your potential driver lacks the necessary licenses, permits, and vehicle documents, you’re setting yourself up for potential trouble with the law. And bitter truth be told, you shouldn’t act surprised when you land in that kind of trouble you put yourself in. In Nigeria, where the average road network is less than desirable, the authorities can be particularly strict about vehicle documentation.

Red Flag #4: Hiring A Driver with a History of Vehicle Accidents:
Chidi’s accident was a stark reminder that a driver’s accident history is a red flag you can’t afford to ignore. Not only does it pose a risk to your vehicle, but it can also negatively affect your business’s reputation. In Nigeria, where road safety is a growing concern, accidents can have serious legal, financial, and operational consequences. An accident involving one of your vehicles could lead to costly repairs, insurance claims, and potential legal issues. Furthermore, if the accident garners public attention, it could harm your company’s image.
Ade’s experience with Chidi underscores the importance of thoroughly checking a potential driver’s accident history.

This should involve reviewing their driving record, accident reports, and any previous claims made against them. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and minimize the risks associated with hiring a driver with a questionable safety track record.

Remember, protecting your business and maintaining a positive reputation is not just about the vehicle itself; it’s also about the people behind the wheel and their ability to keep your operations safe and trustworthy in the eyes of your customers.

Red Flag #5: Hiring A Driver with Questionable References:
As Ade discovered, checking references is crucial. In Nigeria, where word of mouth and recommendations are powerful, tapping into these resources can provide you with invaluable insights. When you contact former employers or colleagues, you can uncover important details about the driver’s punctuality, professionalism, and ability to work well with others. In a country where personal connections often play a pivotal role in business, listening to the advice and experiences of trusted colleagues can be a valuable resource.

Ultimately, questionable references can be a red flag that shouldn’t be dismissed lightly. By delving into the feedback from those who have worked with the driver before, you can gain a better understanding of their character and work history, which is crucial for ensuring the success and safety of your commercial vehicle operations.

Conclusion:
Hiring a driver for your business’s commercial vehicle is a decision that should not be taken lightly. In Nigeria’s dynamic and sometimes challenging business landscape, recognizing these red flags can make all the difference between a smooth ride and a collision course with trouble. Remember, as you embark on this journey, remember that every twist and turn you make contributes to the larger narrative of your business’s future. The wheel is in your hands, and your choice of driver is the driving force behind your business’s voyage.

To make this journey smoother and safer, consider implementing Pro-Drive. Pro-Drive is an innovative tool that harnesses data analytics to help you select the most qualified and reliable drivers for your commercial vehicles. With Pro-Drive, you can enhance the driver selection process, safeguard your assets, and uphold your business’s reputation, ensuring a successful voyage for your company.