DISTRACTED DRIVING and other potentially distracting navigation devices .
• Manage driver schedules to ensure employees are well-rested between trips .
• Use telematics , driver monitoring programs , and in-cabin camera systems to evaluate individual drivers . Whenever possible , reward positive driver behavior to encourage a culture of safety .
• Perform a safety audit , which will give you a high-level overview of distracted driving risks and other concerns .
TIPS FOR DRIVERS
While employers must provide training and guidance to prevent distracted driving , road safety is ultimately up to individual drivers . The following are tips your drivers should keep in mind whenever they ’ re out in the field :
• Remain educated on the risks and consequences of distracted driving . Attend any refresher courses your employer provides .
• Do not text , dial a cellphone , or use dispatching devices while you drive .
• Avoid distracting activities such as eating , personal grooming , and reaching for items .
• Install an application on your cellphone that recognizes when your vehicle is in motion and responds to texts and calls with a preset safety message .
• Minimize the potential for distractions by planning your routes . Research your drive ahead of time to eliminate the need for GPS , maps , and other navigation tools .
• Organize your vehicle ’ s cabin to ensure personal items you may need during a long trip are well within reach . To eliminate the need to reach for items while you drive , program your GPS , adjust your mirrors , and tune your radio before you hit the road .
• Avoid multitasking when driving . If you need to make a phone call or respond to a text message on the road , pull over beforehand . Even the use of a hands-free device is dangerous and can create a cognitive distraction . To help eliminate the urge to use cellphones and other devices , turn them off and stow them out of sight in a safe compartment .
• Ensure you are well-rested prior to getting behind the wheel . When you drive fatigued , the chances of becoming distracted and getting into an accident increase .
• Focus on driving and do not let anything divert your attention . While you drive , actively scan the road , using your mirrors to watch out for other vehicles , pedestrians , and cyclists .
• Plan your meals in advance and avoid eating while you drive .
• Understand and adhere to distracted driving laws in your state .
• Follow employer-mandated guidelines outlined in distracted driving programs and similar policies .
Drivers who glance away from the road for any reason — even for just a second — risk the safety of themselves and others . In order to remain safe on the road , employers and drivers must work together to understand and reduce the risks of distracted driving .
CREATING A DISTRACTED DRIVING POLICY
Even if employers provide adequate training and oversight , drivers are effectively on their own when they ’ re out in the field . To help prevent distracted driving long after training is complete , fleets need to develop and implement a distracted driving policy . These policies are typically part of larger driver safety programs and promote safe driving practices through well-communicated initiatives .
While the specifics of policies may differ from fleet to fleet , they should include the following :
• A policy statement that clarifies your organization ’ s stance on distracted driving . This statement should specify the purpose and goals of the policy .
• A definition of distracted driving . This definition should highlight the dangers of distracted driving and the ways it affects your organization .
• A summary of whom the policy applies to . In general , your policy should account for all company employees , even if driving a vehicle isn ’ t a regular part of their daily duties .
• A list of what constitutes distracted driving and actions that are strictly prohibited to ensure driver safety .
• A list of suggested practices to reduce the risk of distracted driving .
• A list of potential consequences if the terms of the policy are breached .
• A space for the employee ’ s and fleet manager ’ s signatures .
INSURANCE TO PROTECT YOUR BOTTOM LINE
Managing distracted driving will only become more difficult as technology advances and individuals become more reliant on personal devices like cellphones and tablets . Regardless , commercial fleets have a duty to ensure a safe workplace and combat all forms of distracted driving . +
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