NSC Resources to Reduce Distracted Driving

This April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month sponsored by the National Safety Council (NSC). We all know how important it is to keep our workforce safe, and the NSC believes that a comprehensive distracted driving program can go a long way in achieving that goal. To support you in this endeavor, the NSC has created resources that you can use to create or enhance your current program. The focus is on engaging your workforce, sharing safe driving messages, and helping your workers get home safe after every shift.

One of the main resources is posters. You can print and display these posters in common areas or share them digitally to raise awareness of distracted driving risks. We encourage you to make use of them and show your commitment to safety.

To keep yourself safe while driving, the NSC also recommends that you develop a pre-driving routine. Before you start driving, you should program your route, set up your music or podcast, and silence and put away your phone. Handle any distractions coming from inside the car, including vehicle touchscreens. While they may be advanced, they can still cause distractions. Adjust your touchscreen while you’re still parked, and if you need to make changes, ask a passenger for help, or pull over safely.

For professional drivers, this includes dispatching devices and mobile data terminals. Remember that any distraction behind the wheel is dangerous for everyone, so even passengers need to do their part to prevent distracted driving from the passenger seat. Speak up if you feel the driver is distracted or doing something dangerous. Say no to any behavior that draws your driver’s attention away from the road.

As a passenger, it is crucial to prevent distraction for the driver. You can operate the radio, GPS, and ventilation while the driver focuses on the road. Watch for signs, landmarks, and traffic to keep the driver informed about their surroundings. Remember, the goal is to get home safely so that everyone else on the road can do the same.

Let’s work together to promote a culture of safety on the road. To learn more about National Distracted Driving Awareness Month or how to protect your employees and yourself, visit: https://www.nsc.org/road/distracted-driving-awareness-month/ddam-materials?#99.

DII is your partner in vehicle and road safety. Our team of experts can work with you to understand how to update your policies to keep your employees safe and reduce your liability. Please contact your DII representative for more information. #NationalDistractedDrivingAwarnessMonth #SafeDriving #April2023 #NSC