April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. You may already be aware of how dangerous distracted driving can be, but still sometimes succumb to it due to a lack of time or wanting to cover more miles in as little time as possible. We have prepared some stats as well as advice on how to avoid the dangers of distracted driving to help keep you safe in these situations.  

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives in 2019 alone. As mentioned in our post on the dangers of tailgating, a vehicle traveling at 55 mph may keep moving for more than 300 feet before coming to a stop.  For truck drivers, the stakes are even higher as trucks need almost twice as much room as a car to come to a full stop. This is why it’s important to keep your eyes on the road at all times and be alert to your surroundings. 

The Impact of Distracted Driving in the Trucking Industry

Distracted driving significantly threatens the trucking industry’s safety record and overall efficiency. Accidents can cause costly legal battles and increased insurance premiums for trucking companies. Not only that, but it poses a significant threat to your safety, as well as the safety of the ongoing traffic. 

How Truck Drivers Can Stay Safe and Focused

Take regular breaks and be aware of fatigue signs. You are most likely to experience fatigue between 2 AM and 6 AM, so stay alert during this period. If you feel you are getting tired faster than usual, look out for a safe place to pull over and get some rest. We have created a guide to help you look for places to recharge your batteries safely and comfortably here. Once you’ve reached your rest area, either have a light nap or try getting some movement to get your blood flowing. 

Make sure to limit all distractions while driving. Keep cell phones and other electronic devices out of reach while driving. Use hands-free options for communication if necessary. If you enjoy listening to music or podcasts while driving, keep in mind that music can make you more focused on the song than the road ahead, causing a slower reaction time by up to 20%, as shown by different studies. 

Plan your route and stay informed of any traffic jams ahead. Familiarize yourself with your route before starting your journey. Knowing where you’re going can reduce the need for navigation while driving. Try to avoid multi-tasking, such as eating or drinking while driving. 

National Distracted Driving Awareness Month is an important reminder for all drivers to prioritize safety and focus while on the road. As part of our commitment to safety and supporting our drivers, we invite you to consider our lease purchase program, which offers a path to ownership while ensuring you have the resources and support needed to drive distraction-free. 

Let’s make this April and every month a time to drive distraction-free. Call (630)506-8869 now to apply with us and make a change!