Fleet leaders name biggest HGV safety issues caused by other road users

21st August 2026

More than six in 10 transport and logistics leaders believe the public does not fully understand the role of HGV drivers, according to new research from fleet technology specialist Microlise.

The company’s survey of 250 transport and logistics managers also found that 52% think professional drivers feel undervalued by other road users, highlighting ongoing concerns about driver perception and road-user behaviour.

The findings, published in Microlise’s Navigating UK Transport and Logistics in 2026 and Beyond report, suggest fleet operators see greater awareness among motorists as an important factor in improving road safety and reducing risk for HGV drivers.

When asked which behaviours would most help drivers operate safely, 40% of respondents cited maintaining a safe following distance around HGVs on motorways and dual carriageways. More than a third (35%) highlighted the importance of leaving sufficient space on smaller roads.

Other key factors identified included signalling intentions early, allowing trucks enough room to manoeuvre, and avoiding cutting in front of HGVs near junctions and motorway slip roads.

The research comes as fleet operators continue to face mounting pressures around driver recruitment, retention and safety, while navigating increasingly complex road conditions.

According to Microlise, the findings reflect the challenges faced by professional drivers who must continually assess hazards and manage the risks associated with operating large vehicles alongside other road users.

David Hallam, a driver for Gist and winner of the Medium Distance Driver category at the Microlise Driver of the Year Awards 2026, said a better understanding of the realities of the role could help improve safety for all road users.

“Every day you’re thinking ahead, anticipating hazards and making decisions to keep yourself and everyone around you safe,” he said.

“Most road users are considerate, but the small changes highlighted in this research really can make a difference. A better understanding of HGV drivers and the space they need to operate safely helps make roads safer for everyone.”

Microlise chief executive Nadeem Raza said the results point to a disconnect between the skills required to drive heavy goods vehicles and public perceptions of the profession.

“What this research shows is that operators recognise a clear gap between the skill and responsibility involved in driving an HGV and the way that role is understood by the wider public,” he said.

Raza added that fleet safety strategies must extend beyond vehicle technology alone: “For fleets, safety is about more than vehicle technology. Driver behaviour, road-user awareness, training and the right operational data all have a role to play in reducing risk and helping professional drivers do their jobs safely.”

He said improving understanding of the pressures facing HGV drivers could deliver wider safety benefits across the UK’s road network.

The findings are expected to resonate with fleet managers, many of whom are investing in driver training, telematics and safety technologies while also grappling with concerns around driver wellbeing and retention. With road-user behaviour remaining outside operators’ direct control, the research suggests there is growing appetite within the sector for greater public awareness of the challenges faced by professional drivers on a daily basis.