Integrated smartphone technology will soon become “all but standard” on new car and truck models, with nearly 100 million vehicles featuring the smartphone technology by 2016, according to a report by Juniper Research. The technology will integrate a driver’s smartphone with a vehicle’s computer and navigational systems, enabling the vehicle to send and receive data via the Internet.
That data could prove invaluable to employers, who could use the information to increase fleet efficiency, comply with regulations and monitor driver behavior.
The technology does not come without risks, however. Some analysts worry that the integrated smartphone technology could increase distracted driving, which is already a major safety concern for employers.
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of worker fatalities, and distracted driving dramatically increases the risk of such crashes. It is important to address the issue of distracted driving with employees who drive as a part of their job.
April is National Distracted Month. Check with your insurance advisor for more information you can use to help your drivers be safe on the roads, focusing more on the task at hand rather than the technology IN their hands.
Newfirst Insurors can help with drafting a safe driving policy and developing training for your company that includes guidelines on distractions and cell phone use.
Texas Associates Blog 