By Jim Billings, Practice Leader, Auto Risk Solutions at QBE Insurance

It’s clear that driving for work can be a dangerous activity. In a single year, more than 40,000 casualties were reported involving people driving for work.

Driver distractions can be reduced to improve safety, but there is no silver bullet – it is a multi-faceted problem.

Fleet operators can combat driver distractions to protect their staff and mitigate risks.

Understanding Driver Distractions

Understanding the nature of distractions is the first step toward prevention. Distractions can be classified into three main types: visual, manual and cognitive.

Visual distractions occur when drivers take their eyes off the road. This can include anything from just glancing at a cell phone to checking a GPS. Research shows that prolonged staring can increase the risk of an accident seven-fold.

It is important to understand that simple visual distractions, such as looking away from the road, can significantly increase the risk of an incident. Even brief inattention can have catastrophic consequences.

Manual distractions involve taking your hands off the wheel, such as tuning the radio or looking for something in the vehicle.

Third, cognitive distractions are perhaps the most insidious; they distract the driver’s mind from the task of driving and can lead to daydreaming, chattering, preoccupation with stress, or excessive fatigue.

Cell phone use is a widespread and particularly dangerous form of distraction. Studies have shown that using a cell phone while driving can increase the risk of an accident fourfold.

Whether texting, making a call, or browsing social media, the cognitive load and manual interference of mobile phone use can seriously impair driving performance.

Employers should develop a culture of safety and vigilance among their drivers. It starts with education and training programs emphasizing the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of staying focused on the road.

Politics and technology

In addition to training, companies should implement clear policies regarding cell phone use and other potential distractions.

A zero-tolerance policy regarding cell phone use while driving can be effective, especially when combined with the use of hands-free technology and other safe driving aids.

Employers should also consider offering incentives to employees who demonstrate consistent safe driving behaviors.

Technology solutions can play an important role in reducing driver distractions. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as lane departure warnings, automatic lane keeping systems (ALKS), automatic braking and adaptive cruise control, can help reduce the risk of incidents caused by inattention.

Fleet management software can also be used to monitor driver behavior, providing valuable data that can be used to identify and address risky driving practices.

Human factors

Substance use, including alcohol and drugs, is another critical area that businesses must address.

Driving under the influence is a serious form of cognitive and manual distraction that can significantly impair driving ability.

Employers should enforce strict policies against driving under the influence and conduct regular checks to ensure compliance.

Educational programs that highlight the dangers of substance use and its impact on driving performance are also essential.

The role of mental health in road safety cannot be overstated. Stress, fatigue, and other mental health issues can significantly affect a driver’s cognitive function.

Employers should foster a work environment supportive of mental well-being, by offering resources such as counseling services and stress management programs.

Improve safety culture

Businesses should actively engage in promoting a broader culture of road safety. This may involve participating in community initiatives, collaborating with local authorities, and advocating for stronger regulations and enforcement regarding distracted driving.

Ultimately, the responsibility for reducing distracted driving falls on employers and employees. The high number of victims and the significant risks associated with driving require a proactive and comprehensive approach.

By understanding the types of distractions, implementing effective policies and fostering a culture of safety, businesses can protect their employees and ensure safer roads for everyone.