The risks of distracted driving hit close to home for commercial drivers surveyed. Within the last year, 79% of drivers have experienced a “close call” or near-miss because of distracted driving.
Photo: Rick Han via Pexels / Automotive Fleet
Samsara announced the release of its State of Connected Operations Report, “Behind the Wheel: Distracted Driving in Physical Operations.” The report draws on the expertise of more than 1,500 commercial drivers, with nearly 15,000 years of combined driving experience, to identify the cause of distracted driving and the practical solutions drivers need.
The risks of distracted driving hit close to home for commercial drivers surveyed. Within the last year, 79% of drivers have experienced a “close call” or near-miss because of distracted driving.
Further, 93% of drivers have personally experienced the adverse effects of this risky behavior such as vehicle damage (37%), personal injury (32%), fines (30%), and license suspension or revocation (30%).
Widespread Distracted Driving: Texting and Social Media Are Key Drivers
Staying focused on the road remains a challenge, as 76% of drivers report often being distracted by their mobile devices. This finding is consistent across age levels and years of experience as a commercial driver.
Reading and sending messages (32%), making calls (29%), and scrolling social media (29%) are among the most common distractions identified.
However, it’s not all personal mobile use, as 74% use their phones or other technology for work-related tasks while driving. Drivers report the top three ways employers can help them reduce work-related mobile use on the road include improved communication systems to limit work-related calls and messages (44%), better in-cab routing and navigation (43%), and implementing policies that prioritize safety over speed (42%).
These findings show the realities drivers face and reinforce their need for supportive technology and strong safety measures — keeping them connected for work while reducing distractions.
Keys to Driver Retention: A Safer and Supportive Workplace
Drivers want to feel safe and valued. The report found that 90% of drivers are likelier to stay with companies that proactively address distracted driving through preventative strategies.
Notably, global organizations in Canada and the United States are at the forefront of these efforts, where 97% of drivers receive targeted coaching and training. Additionally, 82% of drivers indicate that positive reinforcement, such as recognition and incentives, deter distracted driving more effectively than punitive measures.
The impact of implementing comprehensive training is evident, with 95% of drivers reporting improved driving habits following such programs. Digital platforms have emerged as the preferred training method, favored by 64% of drivers, underscoring the industry’s shift towards accessible, technology-driven education.
The survey respondents are “CDL Operators,” defined as anyone with an active CDL or regional equivalent who operates a commercial vehicle as part of their employment.
The Future of Distracted Driving Prevention: Top Technology Drivers Want
Drivers recognize the potential of advanced technology to enhance safety. Leading the way, 54% of drivers identify accurate, AI-powered detection and alerts as the most desired technology to combat distracted driving.
