We’ve all done it—answered a quick text, adjusted the GPS, or reached for a coffee while driving. But even small distractions can have big consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving caused 3,275 deaths in 2023, accounting for nearly 8% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S.
But most of these crashes are preventable with the right awareness, training, and technology.
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from the road. That includes texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or even talking to passengers.
The NHTSA breaks distractions into three main types:
- Visual: Taking your eyes off the road (like checking a text)
- Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel (like reaching for food)
- Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving (like daydreaming or talking on the phone)
Even a few seconds of distraction can be dangerous. At 55 mph, your car travels the length of a football field in about five seconds—plenty of time for a life-changing accident.
Distracted driving statistics
- Over 3,000 people die each year due to distracted driving.
- Teens and young adults are especially at risk, but distraction affects drivers of all ages.
- Hands-free devices aren’t a safe alternative. Studies show the brain’s ability to process moving images drops by up to one-third while talking on any phone — hand-held or hands-free.
- Distracted driving isn’t just a personal safety risk—it’s a business risk too. Vehicle crashes are the leading cause of work-related deaths, and the average cost of a single accident with an injury averages $27,000–$44,000 in medical bills, repairs, and lost productivity.
3 tips to avoid distracted driving
You can’t control other drivers, but you can help your employees and fleet drivers stay focused behind the wheel. These simple, effective safe driving tips can reduce accidents and keep everyone safer on the road.
1. Set simple rules
Make a clear distracted driving policy part of your safety program. Set expectations for phone use and outline consequences for breaking the rules.
Start with these basics:
- Phone off or on “Do Not Disturb” while driving
- Schedule breaks every two hours for drivers to check messages safely
- Route calls and emails through office staff when possible
- Safe meetings only: Drivers must be parked before joining any calls—confirm this before the meeting begins
Need help writing your policy? Check out EMC’s fleet safety program template and download a safe driving kit from the National Safety Council (NSC).
2. Teach the risks
Education is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents. Offer training sessions and online modules that explain:
- The dangers of multitasking behind the wheel
- The real-life consequences of distracted driving
- Your company’s specific rules (which may go beyond state laws)
Follow up regularly—a quick reminder at monthly safety meetings can reinforce good habits.
3. Use technology to reduce distractions
Technology can help drivers stay focused, not distracted. Consider implementing:
- Blocking apps that silence calls and texts while driving
- Vehicle safety systems that detect lane departures or following distance
- Automated responses that notify others you’re driving
Simple changes like these help protect your employees, vehicles, and reputation.
Stay committed to safe driving
Preventing distracted driving isn’t about restricting technology—it’s about promoting awareness and accountability. By combining clear policies, training, and smart tools, you can build a culture of safe driving that keeps everyone focused on what really matters: Getting home safely.
For more safety driving tips, visit the Loss Control section on emcinsurance.com.