Steering Clear of Risks: The Business Case for Combating Distracted Driving

Distracted driving poses not only significant safety risks but also considerable financial and operational implications for businesses. Activities such as texting, adjusting vehicle controls, or eating behind the wheel may seem minor, yet they substantially increase the likelihood of accidents and disruptions.

March marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month—a valuable opportunity for businesses to review and reinforce safe driving policies. According to Cpl. Michael McLaughlin of the BC Highway Patrol, "Distracted driving, along with speeding and impaired driving, is consistently one of the top three contributors to fatal crashes in BC."

From a business perspective, distracted driving incidents can lead to increased insurance premiums, loss of productivity, and damage to a company's reputation. In British Columbia, the penalties for distracted driving include a $368 fine and four penalty points on a driver’s record. Moreover, Leanne Cassap, ICBC road safety and community coordinator for Langley, highlights the human toll: "Distracted driving is a serious problem in our province, contributing to an average of 79 deaths each year."

Companies can proactively address these risks by establishing clear guidelines, offering employee training programs, and promoting a culture of responsible driving. Encouraging employees to silence phones, prepare vehicle settings in advance, and schedule breaks for meals can significantly reduce distractions.

This March, let's commit to safer driving practices—not only to protect lives but also to safeguard your business’s well-being and reputation.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Distracted Driving #Increased Insurance Premiums #Tickets and Fines #Road Safety #79 Deaths Annually