The Top 3 Risk Indicators in driver behaviour and how to spot them early – MICHELIN Mobility Intelligence

Creating safer roads begins with understanding the root causes of risk, and this undoubtedly starts behind the wheel. Despite road infrastructure and vehicle safety continuing to improve, driver behaviour remains an integral factor in transport safety.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the top three indicators of risky driving, the warning signs to watch for, and how technology is helping to identify and address them before harm occurs.

1. Distracted driving

One of the most significant risks on the road is distraction. Whether it’s a glance at a phone, an in-car conversation, or mental fatigue, any lapse in judgement can have serious consequences. After all, it’s been consistently shown that distracted driving is responsible for a large proportion of road incidents.

The early signs of distraction can be subtle. For instance, slight lane drifting, delayed response to traffic signals, and erratic speed changes.

2. Aggressive or erratic driving

Driving events such as speeding, harsh braking, overacceleration, and sudden lane changes are classic signs of aggressive driving, and they’re closely linked to a higher likelihood of collisions. In commercial fleets, this type of behaviour can have amplified effects, from increased insurance costs to lasting reputational damage, making early detection key.

Modern telematics systems paired with centralised software track driver inputs in real-time, flagging patterns which suggest heightened risk. Over time, insights from the data can reveal trends across individuals or entire fleets, allowing for targeted training and immediate behavioural corrections that promote safer habits.

As a rule, driving while fatigued is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Long hours on the road, particularly in commercial transport, dramatically lower reaction times and impair decision-making.

Signs of drowsy driving can include repeated blinking, head nodding, or even prolonged periods without steering input. Advanced fatigue detection systems use in-cab sensors to track physiological and behavioural cues, warning drivers before they lose full alertness.

The takeaway: Prevention through anticipation

Each of these risk indicators shares a commonality. That is, the ability to be spotted early through behavioural data. The shift from reactive to proactive road safety is being powered by connected technologies and artificial intelligence. Rather than waiting for an incident to occur, it’s now possible to intervene at the first sign of risk.

This data-driven approach is especially powerful in commercial settings, where fleet managers can receive real-time alerts and long-term performance insights. With regular feedback loops, drivers can improve over time, supported by training and coaching which is grounded in actual real-world conditions.

How Michelin’s mobility solutions are driving a safer future

The road to safer transport isn’t solely about connected vehicles or smarter infrastructure, it’s also about understanding the human element. By monitoring driver behaviour and recognising risk patterns early, we’re better equipped to help and prevent accidents before they happen.

At MICHELIN Mobility Intelligence, we combine data with deep expertise in mobility to help organisations address risk at its source. Our intelligent solutions are designed to support drivers, operators, and cities alike in creating safer and greener roads for everyone.

If you’re interested in reducing risk across your fleet or gaining clearer insight into driver performance, then contact us today to learn how we can help make a sustainable difference.