Distracted driving is a huge problem in the United States. According to research, distracted driving kills around eight people every day and injures many more. Distracted driving should be one of your top concerns when it comes to fleet safety.
There are many different types of distractions, but the most common are cell phone use, eating and drinking, grooming, and adjusting the radio. It’s so essential for businesses to take steps to avoid distracted driving in their fleet. There are many ways to do this, and we will discuss eight of them in this blog post.
Implement a Cell Phone Policy
The first step is to implement a cell phone policy. This policy should include rules about when and how drivers can use their phones. It’s important to ensure that all employees understand the policy and follow it.
There are many different ways to enforce a cell phone policy. One way is to install an app that blocks phone calls and texts while the vehicle is moving. This will help drivers stay focused on the road.
Another way to enforce a policy is to use a hands-free device. This allows drivers to talk on the phone without taking their eyes off the road. There are many different types of hands-free devices available, so make sure to choose one that is best for your business.
You can also require drivers to pull over if they need to use their phones. This will help them stay safe and avoid distractions. Make sure to review your company’s cell phone policy regularly and update it as needed. The goal is to make sure that everyone follows the rules and stays safe on the road.
Encourage Safe Driving Practices
It’s important to teach your drivers the dangers of distracted fleet driving. They should know how to identify distractions and avoid them while driving. You can also provide tips on how to avoid distracted driving.
It’s also crucial to set a good example for your drivers. If you’re constantly checking your phone or eating while driving, they’ll likely do the same. Make sure to put your phone away and focus on the road when you’re behind the wheel.
You can also encourage safe driving practices by rewarding drivers for following the rules. This can help keep them safe and focused on the road.
Educate Employees About the Dangers of Distracted Driving
The next step involves educating your employees, which will help them stay safe on the road and avoid distractions. You can provide information about distracted driving in a variety of ways. Start by holding a safety meeting where you discuss distracted driving laws and dangers.
Also, consider providing information in an employee handbook with as much information as possible or posting it on your company’s website. It’s vital to make sure all employees have access to this information, so they’re fully informed about distracted driving and road safety.
You can also mitigate distracted driving by providing training. Training should include a demonstration of how dangerous distracted driving can be. Employees should also learn about the different types of distractions and how to avoid them.
Finally, you can encourage employees to speak up if they see someone driving unsafely. This will help keep everyone safe on the road. Education is the key to fleet safety.
Use Technology to Avoid Distractions
It can be difficult to stay focused on the road while driving, especially when there are a lot of distractions around. However, there are now technological solutions that help drivers stay safer while behind the wheel. One such solution is the Vestige GPS system.
The Vestige GPS system is a device that attaches to a vehicle and tracks its location. It then sends alerts to the driver whenever they violate any safety rules, such as driving above the speed limit or being too close to another car. This helps keep drivers safe by providing them with real-time feedback on their driving habits.
Businesses can also use fleet AI cameras to avoid distractions. These cameras can detect when drivers use their phones or do other activities that can lead to accidents. They then send a warning to the driver and/or the supervisor. This system is excellent for businesses that want to keep an eye on their drivers at all times.
Technology can be a great way to avoid distractions and keep your fleet safe. Make sure to research the different types of technology available and find the best option for your business.
Top Distracted Driving Tips for Fleets
Fleet managers have a responsibility to keep their drivers safe on the road. Distracted driving is a huge problem, and it’s something that businesses need to take seriously.
There are many different ways to avoid distracted driving in your fleet, and if you need AI cameras and tracking equipment, get in touch with us today.