Can the trucking industry keep female drivers safe?

The hum of the engine, the open highway and the independence of the road – trucking offers a unique sense of freedom. With nearly 9.5% of truck drivers now being women, their presence is increasing but so are the challenges they face.  

And one can’t help but wonder – would the industry be able to recruit even more if it addressed the safety concerns and offered the protection women want and deserve? 

The reality of safety concerns 

For many female truckers, safety is more than just a workplace issue – it’s a daily reality. They must make calculated decisions about where they stop, what routes they take and how they interact with others, all in an effort to avoid dangerous situations. 

When female truckers pull into a truck stop late at night, where the parking lot is dimly lit, most of them hesitate before stepping out of the truck. Some keep their doors locked, scanning their surroundings before making a move. Others avoid stopping altogether, pushing through exhaustion just to reach a safer location. According to a Women in Trucking study, 87% of them report feeling unsafe at truck stops and 85.5% at rest areas. 

Aside from that, a lack of gender-specific infrastructure remains a challenge. Many truck stops and company facilities are not designed with female drivers in mind. Inadequate restroom and shower facilities, poorly lit parking areas and the absence of secure lounges force women to take additional precautions just to meet basic needs. In some cases, female drivers avoid using certain facilities altogether, choosing instead to go out of their way to find safer alternatives. 

If the trucking industry truly wants to attract and retain female drivers, it must prioritize their safety and well-being at every level. 

Fleet managers CAN make a difference 

Fleet managers are the ones responsible for creating a safer environment and there are several key areas where they can take immediate action: 

• Better parking security: Investing in well-lit monitored rest stops can significantly reduce risks and provide safer option during breaks 

• Enhanced training: Self-defense, situational awareness and reporting procedures should be included in safety programs 

• Zero-tolerance policies: Clear protocols for reporting and addressing harassment are essential 

• Safer company policies for route planning: Assigning female drivers to routes with safer stops and accommodation with well-lit refueling stations and safer lodging options 

• Mentorship and support networks: Establishing programs where female drivers can share experiences and advice 

Digital keys are the game-changer for safety 

One of the most effective ways to enhance security for female drivers is through innovative technology like digital keys. This essential solution provides: 

• Secure vehicle access: Digital keys remove the risks associated with lost or stolen physical keys 

• Emergency lockdown features: Digital key systems offer emergency lockout capabilities allowing drivers to secure their trucks in the event of a threat 

• Remote management: Fleet managers can control vehicle access in real time, preventing unauthorized entry 

• Improved accountability: Digital records ensure only authorized personnel can operate company vehicles 

Beyond digital key technology, other safety innovations such as dash cams, GPS tracking and emergency alert systems can provide additional layers of protection. Encouraging the use of these tools ensures drivers have access to resources that enhance their security on the road. 

The road ahead 

Investing in infrastructure, training and technology is beneficial for everyone and it fosters a safer, more efficient workplace. It’s time to turn the trucking industry into one where safety is no longer a concern but a given. 

Explore how Keystone by Irdeto digital keys can enhance security for your truckers today.