A Trucker’s Guide to the Risks of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving has become one of the greatest dangers to motorists on American highways. As handheld technology continues to develop and become more sophisticated at a breakneck pace, the average driver is progressively more tempted to avert their eyes from the road and play with their phones, radios, etc.

Commercial Truckers and Distracted Driving

As a professional truck driver or small trucking company owner, you’ve doubtlessly heard a great deal about the perils of distracted driving—but what is distracted driving, exactly, and how many accidents are caused by distracted driving?
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What is Distracted Driving?

According to the federal government, distracted driving is “any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving.” Anything that prompts you to look away from the road, take your hands off of the wheel or impair your focus on changing traffic conditions is considered to be a driving distraction, so it comes as no surprise that something like yellow night driving glasses are recommended to enhance clarity while driving at night. There are many ways that people can stay safe and focused while on the road.

Some of the most common distractions on the road include:

  • Texting
  • General smart phone use
  • Reading
  • Hair brushing
  • Makeup application
  • Eating and drinking
  • Watching videos
  • Navigating with a GPS program
  • Operating a car radio or audio player

There are, in theory, an infinite number of things that can distract you from save driving, but those listed above are the most common causes of distracted driving accidents. But just how big an issue is distracted driving, exactly?

Distracted Driving Statistics

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes for fatal accidents on American highways and roads. Here are some fast facts that will give you some idea as to the scope of the problems that distracted driving causes:

  • In 2014, distracted driving caused 3,179 traffic deaths and 431,000 injuries, according to government figures.
  • Deaths caused by distracted driving occur most often among drivers aged 15-19.
  • As of 2014, 2.2% of drivers on the road at any time could be seen visibly playing with handheld devices or texting, and that percentage is gradually increasing.
  • An AT&T study suggests that as many as 70% of drivers in the United States use their smartphones behind the wheel. 40% of drivers check social media while driving, 30% browse the internet and 10% even go so far as to video chat while driving.
  • The average driver averts their eyes from the road for a whopping five seconds when they send text messages, per government figures.
  • Texting while driving is said to be 6 times more likely to cause a car accident than drunk driving.
  • 94% of American drivers support laws that forbid texting while driving, according to Edgar Snyder and Associates.

The morbid list of distracted driving statistics goes on and on. What is the takeaway? Distracted driving is a deadly problem that is plaguing our highway. So what can you, as a truck driver/small trucking company owner, do to mitigate the risk of being involved in a distracted driving accident? If you find yourself in a truck accident, you might be interested in seeking help or advice, it might be worth looking somewhere like https://www.gjel.com.

Distracted Driving Prevention for Truckers

There are two sides of every distracted driving accident— to make sure that you don’t cause an accident because you were distracted, consider these tips:

  • Always keep your cell phone in the glove box of your big rig.
  • Make sure that your GPS is calibrated and correct before beginning your journey.
  • Pull over when it’s time to eat. Eating while driving causes more wrecks than you may think—and you could use the rest, anyhow.

And on the flip side, to ensure that you don’t fall victim to a distracted driver, think about trying these things out when you see somebody on the road that is clearly texting or checking Twitter:

  • Take the license plate number and call the highway patrol. While they probably won’t get caught, if they are constantly on their phones or engaging in distracting activities, a highway patrolman might just catch them, and that, in turn, might just save a life.
  • Establish a firm rule for your fleet, and make your other drivers pledge to avoid distracted driving.

Limiting Distracted Driving Will Improve Your Life

Reducing distracted driving can significantly improve the lives of truckers in several ways, enhancing their safety, well-being, and job satisfaction. Here are some key benefits:

  1. Increased Safety: Reduced distracted driving leads to safer roads for truckers and all road users. By staying focused on the road, truckers can better anticipate and react to potential hazards, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
  2. Lower Accident Risk: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. By avoiding distractions, truckers can decrease their likelihood of being involved in collisions, which can lead to injuries, property damage, and legal issues.
  3. Improved Health: Avoiding distractions means less mental and physical stress on truckers. Reduced stress levels can lead to better mental health, improved job satisfaction, and a decreased risk of health issues associated with chronic stress.
  4. Enhanced Job Performance: Focusing solely on driving improves job performance. Truckers who maintain their concentration are more likely to meet delivery schedules, avoid accidents, and maintain good standing with their employers and clients.
  5. Reduced Legal and Financial Consequences: Distracted driving violations can result in fines, penalties, and legal issues for truckers. By staying focused, truckers can avoid these consequences and protect their professional reputation.

Taking steps to eliminate distracted company is good for your safety, society and your small trucking company. Make sure that you do not take unnecessary risks when you are out on the road. Do you also want to avoid unnecessary risks in your trucking company’s finances? If so, contact the factoring experts at EZ Freight. We will make sure that you find the funds necessary to guarantee the survival of your growing fleet.

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