Opinion: Drink, drugs, and distractions – how to protect drivers at work

By Jim Billings, practice leader, Motor Risk Solutions at QBE Insurance

It’s clear driving for work can be dangerous business. In one year alone, there were more than 40,000 reported casualties involving individuals driving for work. 

Driver distractions can be reduced to improve safety but there’s no silver bullet, it’s a multifaceted issue. 

Fleet operators can address driver distractions to help safeguard their workforce and mitigate risks.

Understanding driver distractions

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

Visual distractions occur when drivers take their eyes off the road. This can include anything from glancing at a mobile phone to checking a satnav. Research shows extended glances can raise the risk of crashing seven-fold. 

Understanding that simple visual distractions like glancing away from the road can significantly increase the risk of an incident is important. Even brief lapses in attention can have catastrophic consequences. 

Manual distractions involve taking hands off the steering wheel, such as adjusting the radio or reaching for something in the vehicle. 

Thirdly, cognitive distractions are perhaps the most insidious; they divert the driver’s mind from the task of driving and can lead to daydreaming, chatting, being preoccupied with stress or being overly tired.

Mobile phone use is a prevalent and particularly dangerous form of distraction. Studies have shown that using a mobile phone while driving can increase crash risk by at least four-fold.

Whether it’s texting, making a call, or browsing social media, the cognitive load and manual interference posed by mobile phone use can severely impair driving performance. 

Employers should develop a culture of safety and vigilance among their drivers. This begins with education and training programs emphasising the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of maintaining focus on the road. 

Policy and technology

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

A zero-tolerance policy for mobile 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 providing incentives for employees who demonstrate consistent safe driving behaviours.

Technological solutions can play a significant role in mitigating 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 likelihood of incidents caused by inattention. 

Fleet management software can also be utilised to monitor driver behaviour, 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 severe form of cognitive and manual distraction that can drastically impair driving ability. 

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

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

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

Employers should foster a supportive work environment that promotes mental well-being, offering resources such as counselling services and stress management programmes. 

Improving safety culture

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

Ultimately, the responsibility for reducing driver distractions lies with employers and employees. The high incidence of casualties and the significant risks associated with driving for work necessitate 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.