April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a crucial time for businesses that rely on commercial vehicles. Distracted driving isn't merely a personal risk; it can lead to significant financial and operational repercussions for businesses. A single incident can spike insurance costs and tarnish a company's safety record.

Understanding the Risks of Distracted Driving for Businesses

Distractions account for 80% of crashes nationwide, and alarmingly 71% of commercial truck accidents are due to driver distractions. Even seemingly minor distractions, like listening to music or having a phone conversation, can decrease a driver's focus by 40%. It's important to note that a single citation for distracted driving can raise fleet premiums, while repeated violations might render a business uninsurable.

Key Prevention Strategies for Commercial Drivers

• Set clear policies: Advise businesses to establish and enforce strict guidelines on safe driving behaviors among their drivers.
• Provide hands-free tools: Equip vehicles with hands-free systems to facilitate essential communication without compromising safety.
• Avoid multitasking: Texting, eating, or adjusting devices while driving is perilous. Drivers should be encouraged to stop the vehicle if any task requires their attention.
• Focus on safety training: Regular training programs on the dangers of distracted driving can reinforce good habits and awareness among drivers.
• Use “Do Not Disturb” settings: Encourage drivers to enable phone settings that silence notifications during trips to maintain focus.

Businesses are encouraged to implement these strategies and foster a culture of safety. As an actionable next step, consider reviewing fleet safety policies or consulting with insurance providers about risk management solutions.