Nearly half of UK commercial drivers consider quitting amid workplace stress

Nearly half of Britain’s professional drivers are considering quitting their jobs due to overwhelming workplace stress and insufficient employer support, according to new research from Geotab.

The survey of 3,501 commercial vehicle drivers across Europe found that 46% of UK respondents have contemplated leaving their profession in the past year, highlighting a significant retention crisis in the transport and logistics sector.

The findings reveal that 53% of UK commercial drivers feel uncomfortable approaching their employer for support with stress and mental health concerns, while 35% report their employer offering only low or non-existent levels of support. This comes amid a worsening driver shortage, with McKinsey predicting that unfilled truck driving positions in Europe could rise from 200,000 currently to 745,000 by 2028.

The survey also uncovered that 91% of Europe’s commercial vehicle drivers believe work-related stress negatively impacts their driving performance, with 70% saying stress is a contributing factor to increased dangers on the road. In the UK specifically, 61% of drivers stated that excessive traffic or roadworks make completing their jobs difficult, while 46% admitted feeling the need to regularly break speed limits to meet job deadlines.

Edward Kulperger, senior vice president, Geotab EMEA, said: “These results are a stark reminder of the pressures faced by commercial drivers, impacting road safety for everyone. Europe’s economy relies heavily on commercial vehicle drivers, yet stress is pushing them out of the industry and putting road safety at risk.”

Kulperger added: “Drivers face significant work-related stress, observe dangerous behaviours daily, and are often pressured by schedules, yet many feel unsupported or uncomfortable seeking help. These challenges aren’t unique to Europe, echoing findings from our recent North American driver survey. With nearly half thinking about quitting – and that amidst a driver shortage – it is crucial for employers to provide better mental health support now.”