Connecticut Risk Management: Distracted Driving & Risk Management

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. As a business owner, what can you do to keep your employees safe on the road?

Thousands of business owners across the country use commercial vehicles as part of their daily operations. It’s the law to get commercial auto insurance to cover them. But have you factored your distracted driving into your risk management strategy?

Smart phones have turned the vehicle into a mobile office. Employees can check their email, type and access documents, call in to meetings, and conduct a large portion of their business from wherever they are. While it is convenient, they can also disrupt a driver’s focus if they use it on the road. Distracted drivers are a growing liability for business owners, both for their employees’ safety and passengers on the road.

Distraction occurs anytime you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, or your mind off your primary task. Engaging in any non-driving activities while you are behind the wheel significantly delays your reaction time and significantly increases your risk of crashing.

Distracted driving is rampant. At any given moment, over 800,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a handheld phone. Sending or reading texts, checking emails, even social media sites are among the most alarming distractions.

Countering distracted driving should be a part of your company’s risk management approach. Implementing a strict no-cellphone while driving policy can help drivers minimize their risk. Employee training on driver safety with a component for distracted driving can also help educate employees on the risk of driving distractions.

Commercial auto insurance is a critical component of your Connecticut risk management program. Whether you have one car or a fleet of vehicles, our risk management programs feature Accident Investigation Programs & Injury Management.  properly placed coverage is necessary to protect your assets in the event there’s an accident with the company automobile or truck. Sinclair Risk & Financial Management has solid, professional relationships with several top-rated insurance companies to provide you with a program that is both comprehensive and competitive. Contact us today for more information. (877) 602-2305