April 1^st marks the start of Distracted Driving Awareness Month. According to Canadian Automobile Association, commonly referred to as CAA, most Canadians could agree that texting while driving is one of the biggest threats to drivers on the road. Whether it be calling a family member or sending a quick text to a friend while driving, there is a significant number of injuries on the road involving cell phones. 

This day serves as a poignant reminder of the significant number of crashes led annually associated with distracted driving. That being said, it’s important to stay mindful of any distractions and prepare yourself ahead of any long trips you may be taking to avoid injuring not only yourself, but other drivers on the road.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is when the operator of a motor vehicle takes their focus off driving and engages in other tasks which in turn takes their focus off of the roadway.

Types of Distracted Driving 

Visual: Taking your eyes off the road
Cognitive: Taking your mind off the road
Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel

Examples of Distracted Driving

• Talking on the phone
• Talking to others in the vehicle
• Tuning the radio
• Eating or drinking
• Loud Music
• Putting on make-up in the rear view mirror
• Adjusting the GPS
• Looking at sights off the roadway

The Importance of Awareness

By raising awareness of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, it helps to identify the ways in which we can prevent dangers associated with distracted driving in tandem with encouraging drivers to prioritize safety behind the wheel.

This may involve educational programs such as Distracted Driving e-Learning, or physical controls such as turning your device off or on silent while driving. Controls can significantly reduce the number of potential hazards drivers are exposed to. 

It is also necessary that workers follow all regulatory speed limits as well as prepare for getting behind the wheel. This may include managing the drivers speed according to road conditions or changing the tires of your vehicle from summer to winter/all season.

How Safety First Can Help?

It is important to review your company’s health and safety policies and procedures to minimize your risk of injury and distracted driving. All companies must have a health and safety program in place to promote a safe working environment, define safety responsibilities, and ensure companies are following applicable legislation and regulations, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act. If your company does not have a health and safety program or policies in place, please contact our office to get started. 

To learn more about how you can effectively prevent yourself from distracted driving, or more tips on the different hazard controls, visit our e-Learning course on Defensive Driving at training.safetyfirstconsulting.ca. To register for your training, contact info@safetyfirstconsulting.ca, or call our office at 905-669-5444 to learn more.