Although cell phone use and texting while driving causes approximately 1.6 million vehicle accidents per year, it still remains as the number two deadliest driving distraction.
The number one distraction causing about 62% of all road fatalities is “lost in thought” distracted driving.
Distracted driving isn’t just talking on a cell phone or daydreaming, it includes eating, smoking, changing vehicle controls, reading, etc. Essentially, it includes any non-driving activity. Many drivers think sending or reading one text message is okay because it occurs quickly, but according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this takes a driver’s eyes off the road for 4.6 seconds, which at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
Do you consider yourself good at multitasking?
Check out this quick YouTube video which might make you reconsider your cognitive multitasking skills:
As a leading specialist in medical transportation insurance, Sovereign has many clients who manage a fleet of vehicles and employ hundreds of drivers. Safety management is always a key concern of fleet managers, but have you or your company formally addressed the issue of employee cell phone usage?
Sovereign can assist our clients with customizing a comprehensive safety program specific to their exposures, which should always include (at minimum) an Employee Handbook, MVR Evaluation Form, Drug Screening Requirements, Cell Phone Policy, and Abuse/Molestation Policy.
Let’s work together to promote National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Please share this post with fellow business owners and employees in hopes that we can promote safety on our roads. For additional information specific to your need, please contact your Sovereign representative.
Resources:
State Cell Phone and Texting Laws
Distracted Driving Facts & Statistics
Distracted Driving Awareness Month
National Safety Council
Author: Sovereign Risk Solutions
