As you know, because we have been singing the DDA safety song all month, April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. With the month coming to an end, the song must go on! Now is the time for fleet safety managers and risk advisors to reinforce strategies against distracted driving, which continues to be a major cause of road accidents and fatalities, with 3,308 lives lost in 2022 alone.
Join our NTSI Fleet SAFER driver chorus by implementing effective solutions that ensure fleet driver safety and compliance.
Strategies to Minimize Distracted Driving
- Policy Enforcement: Create a Comprehensive Distracted Driving Policy and clearly outline unacceptable behaviors and enforce penalties for violations.
- Regular Training and Education: Conduct regular training sessions to educate drivers on the risks of distracted driving and the importance of focused driving.
- Communication Strategies: Encourage Open Communication and promote a culture where drivers can share their challenges and feedback about driving distractions.
- Regular Safety Meetings: Discuss recent incidents and reinforce the importance of driving without distractions. Use these meetings to remind your drivers that even if you mess up, when you fess up you can learn to be better prepared for the future.
Tips for Effective Implementation
- Lead by Example: Management should adhere to the same standards expected of their drivers to cultivate a culture of safety.
- Reward Compliance: Recognize and reward drivers who adhere to safety policies and maintain distraction-free records.
- Promote Mental and Physical Well-being: Encourage drivers to take regular breaks to help maintain focus.
By implementing the strategies outlined above, fleet safety managers and risk advisors can significantly enhance the safety of their drivers and reduce the risks associated with distracted driving. Remember, a SAFER fleet is not only a legal and ethical responsibility but also a competitive advantage.
NTSI Fleet invites you to share your experiences and strategies in managing distracted driving within your fleet. Reach out to us to discuss how we can help you further enhance your defensive driver safety training and drive SAFER!
