The Accident Prevention Regulations(UVV) are binding regulations of the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV). They contain specific requirements for the prevention of accidents at work, occupational illnesses and work-related health hazards – including in company road traffic and vehicle fleets.
For companies with their own vehicle fleet, the accident prevention regulations are a central legal basis for ensuring safety, legal certainty and liability protection.
What do the UVVs regulate in the vehicle fleet?
DGUV Regulation 70 “Vehicles” is particularly relevant in the context of fleet management . It specifies:
- how vehicles are to be technically procured and equipped,
- how they must be checked regularly,
- what obligations fleet managers, vehicle owners and drivers have.
Duties at a glance:
- Regular vehicle inspection (e.g. UVV vehicle inspection at least once a year)
- Driver instruction according to § 12 ArbSchG and DGUV regulation 1 – at least once a year
- Documentation of all inspections, instructions and rectification of defects
- Ensuring roadworthiness before starting the journey
- Responsibility for the condition of the vehicles lies with the owner and fleet management
Why are UVVs so important in the vehicle fleet?
- Avoiding liability: Violations of the UVV may result in fines, recourse claims or even criminal prosecution in the event of damage.
- Occupational safety: They protect drivers from accidents at work – e.g. due to inadequately secured loads, defective brakes or inadequate lighting.
- Insurance cover: Accident insurance cover may be restricted in the event of gross violations of accident prevention regulations.
Implementation in fleet management
Professional fleet managers rely on structured processes for UVV implementation:
- Scheduling of UVV vehicle inspections (often by external experts)
- Training programs for drivers incl. verification documentation
- Use of fleet software to digitally record inspection intervals, training and defect management
Conclusion
The accident prevention regulations (UVV) are not a voluntary measure, but a legal obligation for company fleets. They not only safeguard the lives and health of vehicle users, but also protect companies from legal and financial consequences. Those who consistently implement and document accident prevention regulations create a safe, legally compliant and responsible mobility operation.
