Distracted Driving: Is Your Business Protected?
Distracted driving is serious business: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving was a factor in 2,841 fatalities in 2018 alone. In 2019, fifteen percent of all police-reported crashes were distraction-related, a 10% increase over 2018. And inattentive driving has serious consequences for businesses. Accidents caused by driving while distracted can lead to major injuries, loss of life, and significant financial damages.
In honor of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, we’re spotlighting the increasing dangers of distracted driving for businesses. As more and more employees use their vehicles for work-related purposes, it is essential for companies to understand how to mitigate the dangers of inattentive driving to protect both their employees and their bottom line.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Any activity that diverts a driver's attention from the road constitutes driving while distracted. Many non-driving-related tasks drivers routinely perform behind the wheel present an opportunity for distraction that is visual (eyes off the road), manual (hands off the wheel) and/or cognitive (brain not focused on the task of driving). Common examples of this are:
Using a cellphone (even in hands-free mode)
Eating or drinking
Adjusting the infotainment system (radio and/or navigation)
Interacting with passengers while driving
However, multitasking is not the only cause of inattentive driving: According to Nationwide, daydreaming and “drowsy driving” are equally problematic, if not more so. In a recent report, the company asserted that “driving while moderately or severely drowsy increases a driver’s crash risk by nearly six times.”
What Are the Risks of Distracted Driving to Businesses?
For any driver, the risks associated with distracted driving are incredibly high. Even a second of inattention to the situation on the road can cause a driver to miss information needed to avoid a collision, with potentially deadly results. For businesses, the negative consequence of distracted driving is just as high. When an employee is involved in an accident while driving for work-related purposes, the company may be held liable for any damages or injuries that occur. This can include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, legal fees and increased insurance premiums. In addition, such accidents can damage a company's reputation and lead to a loss of business.
How Can Companies Help Prevent Distracted Driving?
To protect themselves and their employees, businesses must take proactive steps to prevent distracted driving. Strategies that businesses may use to promote safe driving practices among their employees include:
Establishing clear policies on distracted driving
Businesses should have clear policies that prohibit distracted driving and outline the consequences of violating these policies. These policies should be communicated to all employees and enforced consistently. Key elements of such a policy are:
Clear guidance limiting staff from calling drivers when they know employees are driving, or expecting drivers to respond to calls, texts or emails while driving.
Allowing drivers to refuse to answer a call when conditions are not safe to do so.
Monitoring drivers' compliance with policy through observations and ride-alongs.
Providing education and training
Education and training are essential for promoting safe driving practices. Businesses should provide training on the dangers of distracted driving, as well as techniques for staying focused on the road. Employees should also be made aware of federal regulations against distracted driving in commercial vehicles, as appropriate.
Using technology to prevent distractions
There are a variety of technologies available that can help prevent distracted driving. For example, companies can use apps that block calls and texts while driving, or GPS systems that provide real-time traffic updates to help drivers avoid distractions. Further, hands-free calling, if allowed, should be limited to “one-touch” initiation and termination. Telematics systems can help monitor employee driving habits to aid in enforcement of distracted driving policies.
Encouraging breaks
Long periods of driving can lead to fatigue, which can increase the risk of distracted driving. Encouraging employees to take breaks and rest when needed can help reduce this risk.
Leading by example
Business owners and managers should model safe driving practices themselves, including limiting calls to employees they know to be driving then. By setting an example for their employees, business leaders can create a culture of safe driving within their organization.
Protect Your Business From Risks Associated With Distracted Driving
By taking proactive steps to prevent distracted driving, businesses can protect their employees, their business, and their reputation. Establishing clear policies, providing education and training, using technology, encouraging breaks, and leading by example are all strategies that businesses can use to promote safe driving practices and prevent accidents on the road. Additionally, making sure your commercial auto insurance coverage is up to date and thorough is essential to protecting your business in the event of any sort of employee driving mishap.
Is your commercial policy providing all the coverage you need, including for distracted driving? If you are unsure, drop us a line to discuss a policy update.