DfT Road Safety Strategy signals tougher expectations for fleet operators

The Department for Transport’s newly published Road Safety Strategy (January 2026) marks a significant shift in how driving for work is viewed, with clear implications for fleet operators, according to transport and criminal defence specialists LMP Legal.

While the strategy does not introduce immediate changes to legislation, it hardens the government’s position that road risk is an employer responsibility and should be managed as an occupational safety issue, in line with existing duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

Charlotte Le Maire, Founder and Partner at LMP Legal, said:

“What we’re seeing here isn’t new law, but a much firmer line from government. Driving for work is being treated explicitly as a workplace risk, not just a transport issue. For fleets, that means collisions are increasingly likely to trigger scrutiny not just of the driver, but of the business systems behind them.”

One of the most notable developments is the planned National Work-Related Road Safety Charter, which will initially operate on a voluntary basis. However, the strategy makes clear that regulatory measures will be considered if engagement is low.

“That wording is important,” Le Maire added. “In our experience, voluntary schemes often become the benchmark against which businesses are judged after a serious incident. Operators who ignore this risk being seen as falling below expected standards, even before any formal regulation is introduced.”

The strategy also places heavy emphasis on data-led road safety, including telematics, connected vehicle data and the creation of a new Road Safety Investigation Branch (RSIB). LMP Legal warns that this increases exposure for fleets already collecting driver data.

“Telematics can be a powerful safety tool, but it cuts both ways,” said Le Maire. “If a business holds data showing repeated speeding, fatigue or risky behaviour, the question after a collision will be: what did you do about it? Collecting data without acting on it can create liability rather than reduce it.”

In parallel, the government has signalled a tougher enforcement environment, including consultations on lower drink-drive limits, earlier licence suspension in serious cases, and stricter action on MOT, insurance and seatbelt compliance. For fleets, this raises the likelihood of drivers being removed from duties at short notice, with operational and legal consequences.

LMP Legal also highlighted the strategy’s deliberate move away from the term “accident” in favour of “collision”, reinforcing a focus on preventability and accountability.

“Language matters,” Le Maire said. “We’re already seeing investigations place far greater weight on early driver accounts and roadside statements. Fleets need to ensure drivers know how to respond after a serious incident, because the first few minutes can shape everything that follows.”

LMP Legal advises fleet operators to treat the strategy as a warning shot, not a distant policy document.

“The message is clear,” Le Maire concluded. “There may be no immediate legislative change, but expectations are rising fast. Businesses that can evidence proper governance, training, data oversight and post-collision procedures will be far better protected than those reacting after the event.”

The government’s long-awaited road safety strategy launched this week is a warning shot to operators, with those demonstrating adequate training and data oversight better protected, lawyers said. | Motor Transport