Workplace Safety Screenings: Health & Safety Blog

Should you use continuous monitoring for your drivers?

Written by Tona Trondsen | Jul 16, 2019 2:00:00 PM

In Houston, few companies can offer continuous driver monitoring; however, this monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly service can protect your company from liability and keep you in the know of every driver both here in Texas and throughout the U.S.

What is my liability when it comes to drivers?

You, as an employer, are responsible for any motor vehicle accidents caused by your employees when they are performing the duties of their jobs. Understanding the legalities surrounding pre-employment screening and continuous driver monitoring can save you and your company from a lawsuit. As a general rule, employers are vicariously liable for any motor vehicle accidents caused by their employees under the doctrine of respondeat superior, which imputes the conduct of the employee to his/her employer under agency principles. At the same time, an employer could also be directly liable to the injured party(ies) if the employer’s own independent negligence was the proximate cause of the injuries.

How is continuous monitoring different from the standard procedure?

Most employers are already performing Motor Vehicles Records (MVR) checks both before employment and annually to ensure that their drivers are safe before hire. However, in 2019, premiere background screening companies developed the ability to check driving records across the country on a more regular basis. This reduces liability. It was selected as one of the trends for 2019 background screening because in the gig economy, employers are taking on the risk on unknown employees. This additional protection allows you to tell your customers that your drivers are safe both when you hired them and every time they interact with their customers.

What is continuous monitoring?

If you have continuous monitoring for your drivers, we will check their records at the frequency you desire: monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly. If the driver’s record pings in our search, we will then run a full report so you are completely aware of recent events. Information on this report may include driver’s license information, point history, violations, convictions, and license as well as any restrictions on use and the status of the current license.