Despite a 2011 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulation prohibiting the use of handheld phones while driving for bus and truck drivers, distracted driving is still a deadly epidemic on our roadways. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as many as 660,000 automobile drivers are using a cell phone or manipulating an electronic device during daylight hours.

What does this risk factor amount to? Here are a few statistics from the CDC:

  In 2011, more than 3,300 people were killed in distracted driving related crashes

With professional drivers facing fines of almost $3,000 per offense and even loss of their license for repeat offenses for the use of handheld phones while driving, the FMCSA is working hard to combat the deadly issue. Unfortunately these consequences are not significant enough for some drivers. Companies who employ drivers must take additional steps and efforts to help enforce the safety of their staff and others. So what can you do?

• Create and enforce policies in your employee handbook to prohibit distracted driving

• ·         Place phone numbers on your vehicles allowing other drivers to report distracted or poor driving behaviors

• ·         Regularly communicate the dangers of distracted driving to your staff and provide safety tips to prevent it

• Make safety a main priority for your organization

• Recognize and reward drivers for safe behaviors and compliance with your safety rules, state, and federal regulations

Want to learn more about how you can gain access to Trillium’s national network of professional drivers? Contact us today! Learn more about our Dedicated Driver Services here! Are you a safe and professional driver who is seeking a rewarding career? Visit us here to locate a driving career in your area!

Trillium, a national leader in staffing and recruitment is a valued staffing partner to over 5,000 companies nationwide. Trillium is privately owned by Oskar René Poch.