Distracted Driving
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of driving while distracted and encourage individuals to commit to safer driving practices. The National Safety Council (NSC) designated this month to bring attention in hopes of reducing the number of motor vehicle accidents caused by distracted driving.
According to the NSC, distracted driving is any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the task of driving. These activities can include texting, eating, drinking, adjusting the radio or GPS, applying makeup, or even talking to passengers. Distracted driving is a major problem in the United States, contributing to over 3,142 traffic fatalities in 2020 alone.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognizes the dangers of distracted driving and has established regulations and guidelines to protect workers who operate vehicles on the job. OSHA has also established guidelines to prevent distracted driving among employees who operate company vehicles or drive for work-related purposes. These guidelines include:
- Prohibiting the use of electronic devices while driving – Employers should establish a policy that prohibits employees from using cell phones, laptops, or other electronic devices while operating a company vehicle or driving for work-related purposes.
- Encouraging rest breaks – Fatigue is a common cause of distracted driving, therefore employers should encourage employees to take regular breaks to rest and recharge.
- Providing training – Employers should provide employees with training on safe driving practices and the dangers of distracted driving.
- Establishing consequences for noncompliance – Employers should establish consequences for employees who violate the company’s distracted driving policy, up to and including termination.
Employers who fail to comply with OSHA’s regulations regarding distracted driving can face citations and penalties. OSHA’s penalty structure for violations related to distracted driving depends on the severity of the violation and the employer’s compliance history.
In addition to the financial consequences of noncompliance with OSHA’s regulations, employers who fail to address the issue of distracted driving also risk the safety of their employees and the public. Distracted driving can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
As we observe Distracted Driving Awareness Month, employers need to take steps to prevent distracted driving among their employees. Employers should establish clear policies regarding the use of electronic devices while driving, provide training on safe driving practices, and encourage rest breaks to prevent fatigue.
Individuals can also do their part to prevent distracted driving by committing to safer driving practices. This includes putting away electronic devices while driving, avoiding eating or drinking while driving, and refraining from applying makeup or engaging in other distracting activities while behind the wheel.
In conclusion, distracted driving is a serious problem that affects everyone on the road. As we observe Distracted Driving Awareness Month, let’s all commit to safer driving practices and work together to reduce the number of accidents caused by distracted driving. By following OSHA’s guidelines and regulations, employers can help protect their employees and prevent accidents on the job.