Tips for Occupational Drivers to Protect Themselves on The Roads

Do you have a job that requires you to spend lots of time on the road?

Are you working in construction or transportation?

For many people, driving is a part of their job that they can’t avoid. Whether you’re a delivery driver, trucker, sales representative or service technician, spending extensive hours on the roads poses a higher risk of motor vehicle fatalities. According to the CDC, about three workers die from traffic-related motor vehicle crashes each day. This is why it’s so important to make sure you’re protecting yourself and implementing these safety practices when on the road for your job.

Avoid the Roads During Busy Times If You Can

Pinnacol Insurance shared that the most dangerous times to be on the roads are in the mornings from 9am to 11am, and afternoons at 4pm when studies show that the most accidents occur. If you’re able to avoid driving during these time frames it’s highly recommended. If you can’t, make sure to be extra alert during these busy hours.

Utilize Safety Technology

Dash cameras are growing increasingly popular and if an accident does occur, it will be recorded so you’ll have evidence in the event that a workers’ compensation case takes place. There are now both inward and outward facing dash cameras available, with some so advanced that they can even detect when a driver is picking up their cellphone to take a call.

In addition to using these, making sure your work vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and collision avoidance systems can all help keep you safe and prevent accidents.

Know the Signs of Fatigue and How to Manage It

Fatigue is a huge risk factor for drivers. Drivers must make sure they are getting enough rest before driving on the roads or operating heavy machinery. Aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per a night will help prevent feeling drowsy at the wheel.  

For those on the road all day long, taking frequent breaks is also helpful. A short break every 2 hours can help you stay alert and refreshed.

Additionally, knowing the signs of fatigue like yawning, heavy eyelids, and difficulty concentrating. If you ever experience these symptoms while on the road, pull over safely and rest.

Read our latest article to learn more!

Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Are on Your Side!

Practicing all these safety tips will help you stay safe on the roads and avoid accidents. If you have any questions about your employee rights as a driver, please don’t hesitate to contact our team of Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys with questions.

 

 

How Employers Can Decrease the Risk of Motor Vehicle Fatalities

Have you ever had an employee get into a work-related car accident?

According to Workerslaw.com, driving remains the leading cause of work-related fatalities across the United States.

This statistic is alarming to learn, but it’s also important to know that employers can play a critical role in reducing these risks and protecting their employees. By adopting strategies like incorporating safety technology, proper training, policy enforcement, and creating a culture of safety in the workplace. 

Here are some ways to reduce motor vehicle fatalities in the workplace: 

Don’t Pressure Employees to Take Risks While Driving 

Many employees feel the pressure of responding to work texts and emails ASAP. Employers are encouraged to prioritize their employee’s safety by enforcing that they do not text, email, Zoom, or answer work phone calls while driving. 

Employers should aim to create a culture of safety where employees are encouraged to prioritize safety over productivity. This includes providing support for safety concerns without fear of retaliation. 

Ensure Employees Have Proper Training and Safe Company Vehicles 

Encouraging employees who commute to stay off mobile devices is important, but administering proper training for employees in higher risk industries like construction, oil, transportation, or warehousing is critical is maintaining their safety. 

Comprehensive Driver Training Programs: These types of programs can greatly reduce accident rates by educating employees on defensive driving techniques, fatigue management, and the dangers of distracted driving. 

Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Implementing rigorous maintenance schedules and making sure that all work vehicles are inspected on a regular basis will help prevent mechanical failures and improve safety. 

Safety Technology: Equipping work vehicles with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and collisions avoidance systems can all prevent accidents from occurring. 

Read our latest article to learn more! 

Follow Our Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney’s Advice to Keep Your Employees Safe! 

Motor vehicle accidents remain the leading cause of job-related deaths in the United States, posing a huge threat to occupational safety. By understanding the causes of these accidents and implementing effective prevention strategies, employers can reduce fatalities and create safer work environments. 

If you’d like advice on how to keep these strategies compliant with your local workers’ comp laws, feel free to contact our team of Colorado workers’ compensation attorneys to learn more!