Report highlights dangers of speeding and distraction

Samba’s 2025 Driver Risk Report: ‘Current Trends Shaping UK Motor Risk’ draws on the firm’s network of telematics, claims and licence data to deliver a comprehensive view of the nation’s risk landscape.

The research highlights the urgent need for a proactive, data-led approach to driver safety, from professional drivers to contractors and grey fleet operators.

Key findings include that driver tenure matters. SambaSafety’s UK study reveals the highest crash risk occurs between 24-36 months in role, often linked to overfamiliarity and complacency.

Reinforcing this early-stage risk, the study shows the first six months in a driving role rank second for risk, underscoring the need for structured onboarding and continuous post-hire training.

The study also shows that speeding dominates collisions. In 2023, 58% of UK road crashes involved speeding, with over 16,000 fatal incidents tied to drivers aged 21-39.

Looking at the top offences, speeding accounts for 38% of endorsements, followed by careless and reckless driving at 25%.

The research also shows accelerating telematics adoption. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of fleets use telematics data for driver training. And almost two-thirds (64%) of commercial insurers currently offer or plan to offer telematics-based risk solutions within the next year.

Matt Scheuing, chief executive officer of SambaSafety, said: “Our UK findings echo many of the themes in our US report – speed- and distraction-related incidents are rising and require urgent attention.”