The shift comes as more motorists fail to move over or slow down for vehicles working on the side of the road. Truck drivers see this every day. Cars drift toward the shoulder while their drivers stare at screens or miss the flashing lights completely. That growing danger is exactly what pushed TA to reevaluate how it handles emergency repairs.

Earlier this month, TA announced that it would pause roadside assistance “to ensure our team members have the right tools, training, and processes in place to safely assist professional drivers on the road.” During that pause, the company continued offering help in places like lots, rest areas, and other safe pull-off locations.

The decision became permanent after a TA technician was struck and killed on Interstate 80 in Frelinghuysen Township, New Jersey, while helping a trucker. A passing commercial vehicle hit the technician on the shoulder during the repair call.

Following a full review, TA confirmed it will no longer send crews to the shoulder of highways or interstates. Repairs will only be handled in places where traffic is not speeding past within feet of workers.

“TA will continue to offer emergency repair assistance in safer, controlled environments, including truck stops, rest areas, and parking lots,” the company said. “By stopping work in high-speed and high-traffic environments, we are continuing to prioritize what matters most – the safety of our team members and our customers.”

In emails to customers, TA also pointed to distracted driving as a major factor in the change. The company emphasized that removing technicians from active traffic lanes protects both the people doing the repairs and the professional drivers who need help.

Statistics back up the concern. A study cited in the announcement reported an average of 566 deaths and more than 14,000 injuries every year in incidents involving disabled vehicles on the roadside. States across the country have been updating move-over laws in response to these ongoing dangers.

Some states only require motorists to move over for emergency vehicles, which includes TA’s roadside crews. Other states are now expanding those laws to cover any vehicle on the shoulder. This year, California, Kansas, New Hampshire, and West Virginia all strengthened their move-over requirements. Bills are also moving forward in Massachusetts, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

For truck drivers, the end of highway-shoulder repairs means planning, watching for mechanical warning signs earlier, and aiming for safer places to pull off whenever possible. The change also serves as another reminder of how dangerous the roadside has become, especially for anyone working inches away from high-speed traffic.

Source: Land Line Media

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Scheduled for July 13-19, this week-long observance is packed with educational campaigns, outreach, and enforcement efforts spanning the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It highlights the shared responsibility of drivers, fleet operators, and equipment manufacturers to foster safety and save lives.

Prioritizing the Human Element in Road Safety

Advancements in vehicle technology have transformed the transportation industry. However, as Nicole Oreskovic, vice president of sales and marketing at Bendix, emphasizes, some things remain unchanged.

“Having a well-trained, attentive driver in control of the vehicle is the most important factor in commercial vehicle safety,” Oreskovic states. She adds, “That’s why Bendix develops the technologies and educational tools that help drivers perform at their best – while reinforcing the fact that nothing replaces the responsibility and judgment of the person behind the wheel.”

This perspective reinforces Operation Safe Driver Week’s mission to inspire safe driving habits and raise awareness about behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, and improper seat belt usage.

The Urgency of Safer Roads

The statistics paint a sobering reality. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), large trucks were involved in around 536,424 police-reported crashes in the U.S. during 2022. These incidents caused approximately 160,608 injuries and claimed 5,936 lives. These numbers drive home the critical importance of cultivating safer habits and leveraging technology to reduce risks.

“Driving a commercial vehicle today means navigating some unpredictable roads, shifting traffic conditions, and constant distractions,” says TJ Thomas, Bendix’s director of marketing and customer solutions.

While advanced safety systems can make a meaningful difference during critical moments, Thomas clarifies they are not a replacement for the human driver. As he explains, “Bendix safety technologies complement safe driving practices. No commercial vehicle safety technology replaces a skilled, alert driver exercising safe driving techniques and proactive, comprehensive driver training. Responsibility for the safe operation of the vehicle remains with the driver at all times.”

Empowering Drivers Through Knowledge and Tools

Sophisticated safety systems such as Bendix Fusion and Bendix ESP (Electronic Stability Program) integrate advanced sensors and automated responses to reduce accident risks. However, for these tools to be effective, drivers need to fully understand their capabilities and limitations.

“That’s why Bendix places so much emphasis on education and awareness,” the company notes. Through resources like the “Truck Talk with Bendix” podcast and its popular YouTube channel, Bendix ensures drivers have access to in-depth training materials. These channels include the exclusive “Driver Insight Series,” which deepens understanding of technologies, offering tips on how to use them effectively in real-world scenarios.

Thomas encourages drivers to familiarize themselves with their vehicle’s operator’s manual. “Technologies like Fusion are tools to help drivers improve safety,” he states. “Drivers should always review the operator’s manual to understand what features are included, how they work, and their limitations. That understanding is essential to help build driver confidence as they better understand how ADAS complements safe driving practices.”

Additionally, Bendix supports fleet training programs with extensive resources, supplemental materials, and expert guidance. Their goal is to empower drivers with the skills and knowledge required to work in tandem with emerging technologies safely.

Supporting Vehicle Safety With Technician Training

Of course, ensuring vehicle safety isn’t solely about the driver’s behavior—it also involves maintaining commercial vehicles to the highest standards. Bendix offers robust technical support and training to help fleet maintenance teams stay ahead of evolving systems.

“With over two decades of expertise, Bendix Brake School remains one of the industry’s top hands-on training programs,” says Brian Screeton, manager of technical training and service at Bendix. “Whether through in-person classes, virtual modules, or interactive resources, we strive to educate technicians and assist fleets of all sizes.”

Accessible Resources for Maintenance Teams

Bendix’s efforts extend beyond the classroom, offering an expansive online platform for 24/7 learning. The Bendix On-Line Brake School now boasts over 200,000 registered users and includes more than 100 courses covering maintenance and safety system troubleshooting.

Additional resources are readily available through their centralized hub, B2Bendix.com. Here, technicians can access service manuals, installation guides, and custom training designed for fleet-specific needs. For on-demand technical clarification, the Bendix Tech Team hotline – 1-800-AIR-BRAKE (1-800-247-2725) – ensures professionals always have access to expert advice.

“Our goal has always been clear,” shares Screeton. “Providing safe vehicles starts with knowledgeable people. Whether it’s a two-truck fleet or a national operation, we’re here with technical insight and support that helps keep drivers – and everyone else on the road – safer.”

Working Toward Safer Roads, Together

Through its support of Operation Safe Driver Week and ongoing commitment to educational outreach, Bendix exemplifies the teamwork needed to make roadways safer. By combining advanced technology, comprehensive driver training, and robust vehicle maintenance programs, Bendix contributes to a shared vision of reduced roadway risks.

This week, as enforcement efforts across North America remind us of the stakes, there’s no better time to commit to safer driving habits, develop driver skills, and ensure our vehicles are in optimal condition. Together, we can make every road a safer one.

Image Source: Bendix
Source: The Trucker

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While it may seem like just another enforcement blitz, this initiative carries serious implications for carriers and drivers, especially those already grappling with CSA scores or FMCSA oversight.

This year, the focus is on speeding, a leading cause of truck-related fatalities. According to NHTSA data, speeding contributes to nearly one-third of fatal crashes. But this week isn’t just about issuing tickets—it’s a chance for fleets to address unsafe practices before they spiral into costly compliance issues, higher insurance premiums, lost business, or even shutdowns.

What is CVSA Safe Driver Week?

CVSA Safe Driver Week is a coordinated effort across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico aimed at identifying and addressing unsafe driving behaviors in both commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators and passenger drivers. During this week, law enforcement will issue warnings and citations for violations such as:

• Speeding, tailgating, and aggressive lane changes.
• Distracted driving, including mobile phone use.
• Seat belt infractions.
• Ignoring traffic control devices.

The overarching goal? To deter dangerous driving and hold operators accountable through roadside interventions. As CVSA emphasizes, the focus is on ensuring the safe operation of all commercial vehicles.

Why This Matters for Fleets and Drivers

It’s easy to dismiss Safe Driver Week as a temporary inconvenience, but it’s part of a much larger picture. These enforcement periods directly impact your FMCSA profile, shaping your safety reputation in the eyes of insurers, brokers, and shippers.

Every violation recorded during these blitzes contributes to your CSA scores, and repeated issues in areas like unsafe driving, HOS compliance, or vehicle maintenance can trigger a domino effect:

• Higher ISS Scores: The FMCSA’s Inspection Selection System (ISS) uses your safety performance to determine how often your fleet gets inspected. A high ISS score means more frequent stops, even if your trucks are running clean.
• Increased Inspections = More Violations: Each inspection creates an opportunity for additional write-ups, especially if past issues haven’t been addressed.
• Noncompliance Cycle: Once your BASIC scores hit the alert threshold, it becomes harder to secure top-tier freight or renew insurance policies, especially in today’s tough insurance market.

Building a Clean Inspection Strategy

Breaking the cycle of noncompliance starts with a proactive approach. Don’t wait until Safe Driver Week to act—make safety a daily priority. Here’s how:

1. Train Drivers Proactively: Educate your team on behaviors that trigger enforcement stops, like speeding or distracted driving.
2. Coach Respectful Interactions: Teach drivers how to handle roadside inspections professionally and accurately.
3. Leverage Safety Technology: Invest in tools like AI-enabled dashcams, driver scoring systems, and real-time coaching platforms to identify and correct unsafe behaviors before they lead to violations.

As CVSA officers focus on speeding, distracted driving, and seatbelt use this July, fleets equipped with AI-backed safety systems will have a significant advantage. These tools not only prevent accidents but also reduce the likelihood of citations. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Beyond Safe Driver Week: Other CVSA Events to Watch

Safe Driver Week is just one of several CVSA initiatives designed to address specific compliance risks. Upcoming events include:

• Brake Safety Week (August 25–31, 2025): This annual campaign targets brake system violations, one of the most common out-of-service issues. Inspectors will focus on brake components, lining conditions, and air system integrity during Level I and IV inspections.

Each event is an opportunity to strengthen your compliance strategy. If you’re only learning about these blitzes a week in advance, you’re already behind. Smart fleets conduct year-round internal audits, mock inspections, and data reviews to stay ahead of the curve.

Why Out-of-Service Criteria Are Critical

The CVSA Out-of-Service (OOS) Criteria outlines violations that can immediately sideline a truck or driver until the issue is resolved. Updated annually, these criteria are essential for maintaining compliance. Building checklists around OOS standards can help fleets avoid costly downtime, legal trouble, and reputational damage.

The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Safety

Failing to prepare for enforcement events doesn’t just result in tickets—it can lead to:

• Skyrocketing insurance premiums or policy cancellations.
• Lost contracts with shippers and brokers who monitor CSA data.
• Downtime, repair expenses, and towing fees for out-of-service vehicles.
• Increased driver turnover due to unclear compliance structures.
• FMCSA audits or interventions.

In today’s competitive freight market, safety isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting your brand, revenue, and long-term survival.

Final Thoughts: Turning Enforcement into Opportunity

For fleet managers, owner-operators, and safety directors, events like Operation Safe Driver Week shouldn’t be seen as threats. Instead, view them as opportunities to improve.

Every clean inspection, every corrected behavior, and every investment in driver support brings you closer to lowering your ISS score, avoiding FMCSA intervention, and positioning your fleet as a top-tier carrier in a highly scrutinized industry.

Source: Freightwaves

The post Get Ready: CVSA Safe Driver Week is Approaching appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Each year, the CVSA hosts this campaign to help improve how people drive—not just through enforcement, but by encouraging meaningful conversations between drivers and officers and spreading education where it matters most. This year’s focus? Reckless driving.

As CVSA puts it, reckless driving includes any action behind the wheel that shows “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” That means speeding, texting while driving, tailgating, or getting behind the wheel under the influence could land drivers in trouble. Expect everything from warnings to full citations if you’re caught making risky choices behind the wheel.

Why This Week Matters

The numbers tell a sobering story. In 2023 alone, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 40,901 traffic-related deaths in the U.S.—only a slight dip from 42,721 the year before. Canada saw 1,931 roadway fatalities in 2022, while Mexico reported a staggering 15,979 deaths that same year.

Operation Safe Driver Week is one way CVSA is working to improve those numbers. The initiative isn’t just about catching drivers in the act—it’s about preventing crashes from happening in the first place.

Enforcement Meets Education

Although enforcement is a major piece of the puzzle, this campaign is also rooted in public education. CVSA is rolling out tools and materials that reach drivers of all kinds—from those just learning to drive to seasoned professionals behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle. The organization also distributes public service announcements and downloadable resources to help spread key safety reminders far and wide.

Operation Safe Driver Week combines targeted enforcement with proactive outreach to help drivers slow down, stay focused, and make better decisions on the road.

How to Learn More

Drivers, fleet managers, and safety advocates can all take part in this effort. For educational materials, enforcement details, and downloadable resources to help raise awareness in your community, head over to the CVSA website.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

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Work Zone Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility

“Work zone safety is a shared responsibility, whether behind the wheel or working on the side of the road,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. He added, “We engineer our roads to be as safe as possible, but no amount of engineering can change driver behavior. 113 TDOT workers have been killed in work zones. Let’s work together to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”

As spring and summer kick off peak construction season, Tennessee’s highways will see crews performing major projects like interstate expansions, roadway repaving, and even essential tasks like litter collection. These work zones are necessary to maintain and improve roadways but come with increased risks for workers and drivers alike.

Last year, Tennessee reported 16 fatalities in work zone crashes. As of this year, there have already been 35 incidents where vehicles crashed into TDOT equipment, including HELP Trucks that assist stranded motorists.

TDOT’s Work Zone Safety Campaign

To combat these alarming statistics, TDOT has been running the “Work with Us—Move Over, Slow Down” safety campaign since 2017. This initiative reminds drivers across Tennessee about the importance of year-round vigilance in work zones. It encourages motorists to take the “Work with Us” pledge to commit to safer driving behavior.

Key messages will be shared on TDOT’s overhead Dynamic Message Signs, which are visible in major cities, including Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. Orange lighting will also illuminate prominent buildings and bridges throughout the state to symbolize the campaign. Additionally, “Work with Us” signs will be stationed near construction areas to further emphasize driver safety.

The Human Impact of Work Zone Incidents

Work zone safety is more than just numbers. Crashes can leave a lasting impact on families, workers, and communities. TDOT reports that 2024 there were 2,318 total crashes in work zones, including 563 that resulted in injuries. These sobering statistics highlight the urgent need for drivers to prioritize safety.

Unfortunately, risks aren’t limited to primary work zones. TDOT’s secondary work zones, where HELP Trucks and other first responders provide assistance, also face significant dangers. These vehicles are often struck while helping motorists, putting workers in harm’s way.

How You Can Help

TDOT urges drivers to take specific actions to protect both themselves and workers:

• Check traffic conditions before leaving: Use TDOT SmartWay to plan your route and avoid unnecessary delays.
• Put your phone away: Secure your device in a hands-free system to eliminate distractions.
• Follow Move Over laws: Slow down and change lanes when you see flashing lights or vehicles in work zones.

Join the Effort to Save Lives

With thousands of crashes and dozens of injuries each year, small actions like reducing speed and staying alert can make a significant difference. The Tennessee Department of Transportation is asking every driver to do their part to help ensure “We All Get Home.”

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: MSN

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A collaborative effort between the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) and the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission (OTIC) is in place to address the frequent causes behind both passenger and commercial vehicle collisions.

“The motoring public can expect to see troopers conducting high-visibility patrols on the turnpike through the rest of 2025, focusing on distracted driving, speed enforcement and safety belt usage,” said Lt. Erica Gockstetter. “But we cannot just enforce our way to a safer Ohio Turnpike. To truly create the safest driving environment, we need a commitment from motorists to drive in ways that are responsible and safe.”

Lt. Gockstetter highlighted the importance of safe driving practices for all types of motorists, especially in how passenger vehicles share the road with commercial trucks.

“We want to remind the motoring public to use caution around commercial vehicles. Avoid the no-zone by staying out of the blind areas in the front, back and sides of these vehicles. Do not cut in front of a commercial vehicle, as they require more stopping distance than a passenger vehicle,” she advised. “We equally ask commercial drivers to drive alert, follow the hours-of-service regulations, and be attentive to blind spots when changing lanes. Additionally, driving appropriately for road or weather conditions is crucial.”

Alarming Turnpike Safety Statistics Drive Action

The safety campaign comes on the heels of sobering data from the Ohio Turnpike. Between 2020 and 2024, there were 3,810 crashes caused by speeding, resulting in 18 fatalities and 1,514 injuries. Additionally, 326 accidents involved distractions, resulting in one death and 141 injuries, while 29 fatalities were recorded where safety belts were available but not used.

To address these troubling numbers, OSHP and OTIC are urging drivers to reflect on their habits behind the wheel.

Chris Matta, chief engineer and deputy executive director of the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission, called for a collective effort to change dangerous driving behaviors.

Chris Matta, chief engineer and deputy executive director of the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission, urged drivers of both passenger vehicles and commercial trucks to recognize and address unsafe driving habits, such as aggressive or distracted driving. Taking these steps is crucial to reducing accidents and preventing injuries and fatalities on the Ohio Turnpike and beyond.

Source: Overdrive

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The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will roll out an extensive awareness campaign over the next few months. This initiative will leverage social media, paid advertisements, and partnerships with key stakeholders to ensure that all residents understand the new regulations and safe driving practices.

“This new legislation is a crucial step toward making Colorado’s roads safer for everyone,” stated Shoshana Lew, CDOT’s Executive Director. “By encouraging drivers to focus solely on the task of driving, we can reduce the number of distracted driving incidents and prevent crashes that often come with such behavior. This law aligns with best practices from across the nation and reflects our commitment to protecting all road users, whether in a vehicle, on a bike or walking.”

According to CDOT’s 2024 Driver Behavior Report, a staggering 77% of Colorado drivers admitted to using their phones while behind the wheel. Of those, 45% indicated that having a hands-free feature could deter them from using their phones.

Research highlights that engaging with a mobile device while driving can multiply crash risks by two to six times.

CDOT’s press release underscores the heightened risk distracted drivers pose to vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists. Between 2015 and 2023, fatalities in these groups surged by 50% and 112.5%, respectively, while the state’s population saw less than an 8% increase.

By 2025, 30 states, including Colorado, will have enforced a ban on handheld phone use while driving. This law is designed to minimize accidents and fatalities linked to distracted driving.

“Colorado joins 29 other states in prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile devices while driving,” noted CDOT in their statement. “States with similar laws have reported decreases in distracted driving crashes. In Michigan, a 2023 law banning hand-held cellphone use led to a 12.8% decrease in distracted driving crashes within the first year.”

Fines for breaching the new law start at $75, accompanied by two points on the driver’s license for the initial violation. However, first-time offenders can have their charges annulled by showing proof of purchasing a hands-free accessory. Those who repeatedly offend will incur higher fines and more points on their licenses.

“For a long time, troopers have been able to detect when someone is driving distracted by a vehicle weaving between lanes, delayed starts at stop signs and lights, not to mention seeing a phone or other device in a driver’s hand,” remarked Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “This legislation allows us to address risky and careless behaviors in a proactive way to increase the safety of all roadway users.”

With the deadline looming, CDOT urges drivers to start refraining from phone usage while driving. To aid compliance, drivers should consider investing in hands-free devices like dashboard mounts or car speakerphone systems.

Exemptions to the law are provided for those reporting emergencies, utility workers, code enforcement officials, animal protection officers, first responders, and individuals in stationary vehicles. These exceptions ensure that vital communication remains unaffected during emergencies or essential operations. To discover more about Colorado’s hands-free law, visit codot.gov/handsfreeco.

Source: Truckers News

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The Wisconsin State Patrol, in collaboration with the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association (WMCA), has successfully conducted its third annual “Trooper in a Truck” campaign, aimed at reducing instances of distracted driving. This impactful initiative took place over five days in July, where law enforcement officers teamed up with professional truck drivers to monitor driver behavior on the roads.

With strategic placements in cities such as Green Bay, Hudson, Madison, Waukesha, and Wausau, the officers leveraged their elevated positions to identify risky behaviors like speeding, not wearing seat belts, and tailgating. Neal Leclaire, WMCA Road Team Captain and driver at Duplainville Transport Inc., underscored the value of this partnership, stating, “Working with law enforcement gives us the opportunity to work together for safer roads.” His straightforward advice resonates: “As a professional driver my advice would be, pay attention to your driving and be patient.”

Aerial View on Road Safety Violations

As part of the Trooper in a Truck program, officers utilize the height advantage provided by larger vehicles to observe and report traffic violations. When infractions are detected, troopers promptly notify nearby patrol units to take appropriate action against offending drivers, ensuring safety on the highways.

Leclaire, a professional driver with nearly three decades of experience, noted the evolving landscape of driving habits, exacerbated by advancements in technology. “As technology advanced, it seems the problem has gotten worse. That’s why I participated in the Trooper in a Truck program,” he remarked, sharing that he has observed a decline in distracted driving since his initial involvement. The campaign spanned from July 8-12, strategically aligning with the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s Operation Safe Driver Week, aiming to mitigate accidents involving commercial vehicles.

Collaborative Efforts for Safer Highways

Initiated three years ago by Kim Conradt, WMCA’s safety programs coordinator, this initiative has not only expanded its reach each year but also garnered significant media coverage. “Some of my road team captains came to me about three years ago and they said every day they’re up in the truck, they can see the drivers and what they’re doing down below,” Conradt explained. She pointed out the prevalence of distractions like texting and applying makeup, stating the urgent need to address these issues. “We want to educate. There’s nothing that’s more important than you getting home alive.”

Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan has called on all motorists to stay alert, especially near larger vehicles that have substantial blind spots and limited maneuverability. “All motorists have to work together to prevent crashes,” he emphasized. With an average of 7,000 accidents annually involving large trucks within the last five years, the significance of initiatives like this cannot be overstated.

Commitment to Road Safety

Gillian Taylor, senior logistics safety coordinator at Duplainville Transport, highlighted her commitment to enhancing safety for every road user. “Professional drivers spend 11 hours a day on the road, which unfortunately is more than enough time to witness firsthand the results of distracted driving,” she stated. “It’s not worth it, a life is not worth it.”

Joining the campaign this year was Kwik Trip, a well-known convenience store chain. Jeremiah Wickersham, a driver and lead trainer for Kwik Trip, echoed the importance of prioritizing safe driving. “Safe driving is important to me because I am always seeing the effects of unsafe driving while either training new drivers or driving myself,” he expressed.

Source: Transport Topics

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Key behaviors on the rise since before the pandemic include updating or checking social media (up 13%), typing texts or emails (up 10%), talking on cellphones hands-free (up 10%), using cellphones for recording videos or taking photos (up 9%), and reading texts or emails (up 9%). Nearly half of respondents now perceive roads as less safe than a year ago, with 78% identifying inattentive driving as a worsening problem compared to previous years.

“Distraction is one of the leading causes of roadway fatalities, and it continues to have a devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities,” said Michael Klein, executive vice president and president of personal insurance at Travelers. “Creating safer roadways requires action from each of us, and while the survey results show that people are concerned about distracted driving, they are still unfortunately taking dangerous risks.”

Official data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) underscores these concerns, revealing a significant 10.5% increase in U.S. traffic deaths in 2021, with ongoing estimates indicating similarly high fatality rates.

Among surveyed executives, 85% express heightened concern about employees’ mobile technology use while driving, up from 77% in 2023. In response, 68% have implemented distracted driving policies, with many reinforcing these measures by formally communicating restrictions on phone use while driving for work (84%), requiring policy acknowledgments from employees (66%), disciplining non-compliant employees (77%), and prohibiting handheld device use while driving (53%).

Consistent with previous findings, the 2024 Travelers Risk Index suggests that factors like passenger vocalization of concerns (86%) and financial incentives for safe driving (86%) could effectively encourage drivers to maintain focus on the road.

“Distracted driving is a preventable crisis,” said Chris Hayes, assistant vice president of workers compensation and transportation, risk control, at Travelers. “If you’re the passenger in a vehicle, speak up if the driver isn’t paying attention to the road. If you’re an employer, avoid calling employees when you know they’re driving. If you’re a parent, be a positive role model by putting the phone away and avoiding distractions when you’re behind the wheel.”

Source: The Trucker

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Factors contributing to this decline include consent-driven usage-based insurance (UBI) programs, hands-free legislation, and increased media awareness about the hazards of distracted driving. CMT estimates this reduction prevented over 55,000 crashes, 31,000 injuries, 250 fatalities, and nearly $2.2 billion in economic losses in 2023.

However, despite the improvement, distracted driving remains alarmingly high in the U.S., with drivers 187% more distracted than their U.K. counterparts. In 2023, U.S. drivers spent an average of 2 minutes and 6 seconds on their phones per driving hour, still 17% higher than in 2020.

The report underscores the impact of distracted driving on crash frequency and severity, revealing that certain distractions, such as handheld phone calls, lead to crashes at speeds 31% higher, increasing crash severity. Additionally, data shows that distracted drivers were 62% more likely to crash in 2023, with 34% of crashes preceded by driver distraction.

Furthermore, the report discusses the effectiveness of UBI programs in promoting safer driving, with enrollees being 65% safer, and the positive outcomes of hands-free laws, which reduced distracted driving by 7.1% and prevented 8,200 crashes and 37 fatalities in 2023.

Increased media coverage on distracted driving, evidenced by over 67,000 articles produced in 2023, has also contributed to raising awareness and reducing distractions among drivers. The report delves into various risk behavior trends, the states with the highest levels of distracted driving, peak times for distractions, and drivers’ app usage habits.

“While it’s great to see that distracted driving declined in 2023 after years of trending upward, every second that drivers use their phone behind the wheel puts all road users at risk,” said Matt Fiorentino, VP of Marketing for Cambridge Mobile Telematics. “From consent-based UBI programs, to hands-free laws, this decline shows that we have the tools to fight distracted driving. With the data from this report and CMT’s insights into reducing road risk, we have an opportunity to accelerate this progress even further.”

In addition to telematics data, the report includes insights from five CMT surveys covering topics such as popular driving apps, driver sentiment on road safety, and the adoption of Do Not Disturb While Driving.

Source: The Trucker

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