Keep Your Fleet Safe: Distracted Driving Awareness Month

April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a significant time for businesses that rely on commercial vehicles to revisit their safety practices. Distracted driving isn't just a personal risk; it affects businesses financially and operationally. Even a single incident can lead to increased insurance costs and impact a company’s safety record.

The Risks of Distracted Driving for Businesses

Distractions contribute to 80% of crashes nationwide and 71% of commercial truck accidents. Even minor distractions like music or phone conversations can decrease a driver's focus by 40%. Additionally, a single citation has the potential to raise fleet insurance premiums, while repeated violations could render a business uninsurable.

Key Prevention Strategies for Commercial Drivers

1. Avoid multitasking: It's crucial to reinforce that texting, eating, or adjusting devices while driving is highly dangerous. Encourage drivers to pull over if something requires their attention.

2. Use “Do Not Disturb” settings: Recommend enabling phone settings that block notifications while driving to reduce distractions.

3. Provide hands-free tools: Suggest that companies equip vehicles with hands-free systems for essential communication, ensuring drivers keep their attention on the road.

4. Focus on safety training: Promote regular training programs that educate drivers about the risks of distracted driving and how to avoid them.

5. Set clear policies: Advise businesses to establish and enforce strict company guidelines on safe driving behaviors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a distraction-free environment.

Encourage your company to implement these strategies and reinforce a culture of safety. Take action this Distracted Driving Awareness Month by reviewing your fleet safety policies or speaking with your insurance provider about effective risk management solutions.