Distracted driving is a factor in 25 to 30 percent of all traffic crashes. With hectic schedules and roadway delays, many employees feel pressured to multi-task just to keep up with their personal and work-related responsibilities. More time on the road means less time at home or at work but “drive time” can never mean “down time.” Since drivers make more than 200 decisions during every mile traveled, it's critical for employers to stress that when driving for work, safe driving is their primary responsibility.
The National Safety Council notes results of several studies specifically related to cell phone use while driving, including:
- Drivers using a cell phone are at a four times greater risk of a crash
- Cell phone use contributes to 6% of all crashes, and
- The annual financial toll of cell phone-related crashes is estimated at $43 billion.
NSC admits other in-car activities are more dangerous than using cell phones. However, cell phone use has become so prevalent, it has become more dangerous overall.
Also, studies show that hands-free devices don’t make cell phone calls safer while driving safe.
What’s the difference between talking on a hands-free phone and speaking with someone else in a car? Unlike the passenger sitting next to you, the person on the other end of the call is oblivious to what’s happening around the driver on the road. The passenger provides another pair of eyes and can help keep the driver alert.
In summary, we can learn that driving safely requires drivers to remain focused on driving at all times. Whether it is a cell phone or other distraction, remind your employees about their workplace safety obligations.
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