Enhance Fleet Safety: Distracted Driving Awareness

Understanding the Importance of Distracted Driving Awareness Month

April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a crucial period for businesses, especially those reliant on commercial vehicles. Distracted driving isn't just a personal risk—it poses significant financial and operational threats to businesses. Even a single incident can escalate insurance costs and tarnish safety records.

The Risks of Distracted Driving for Businesses

Distractions contribute to 80% of crashes nationwide and 71% of commercial truck accidents. Even minor distractions, such as music or phone conversations, can decrease focus by 40%. A single citation can raise fleet premiums significantly, while repeated violations may render a business uninsurable.

Key Prevention Strategies for Commercial Drivers

• Focus on safety training: Promote regular training programs to educate drivers on the risks of distracted driving and instill safe driving habits.
• Avoid multitasking: Reinforce that texting, eating, or adjusting devices while driving is highly dangerous. Encourage drivers to pull over if something requires attention.
• Use “Do Not Disturb” settings: Recommend enabling phone settings that block notifications while driving to minimize distractions.
• Set clear policies: Advise businesses to create and enforce strict company guidelines on safe driving behaviors to cultivate a culture of safety.
• Provide hands-free tools: Suggest that companies equip vehicles with hands-free systems for essential communication, allowing drivers to keep their focus on the road.

Businesses are encouraged to implement these strategies to reinforce a culture of safety throughout their fleets. This Distracted Driving Awareness Month, take action by reviewing your fleet safety policies and consulting with your insurance provider about risk management solutions.