Traffic accidents continue to be one of the leading causes of high-severity workers’ comp claims, according to research.
The National Council on Compensation Insurance found in a study that the cost of workers’ comp claims for accidents involving motor vehicles was 250% more than the average for all workplace accidents.
The study also found large differences between the cost of claims involving large trucks and passenger cars, as well as a reduction in the number of accidents during economic recessions. Besides a threat to other drivers on the road, any injuries your employees suffer while on driving for you on the job will end up being paid for by your workers’ comp policy as well any time missed from work due to the injury.
The study found:
- While the frequency of truck fatalities is now very similar to the frequency of passenger vehicle fatalities, the frequency of non-fatal injuries is higher for passenger vehicles.
- Motor vehicle accidents are more likely to result in multiple claims, and claims costs are higher for claims from multiple-claim events.
- Motor vehicle accident claims are more severe than the average workers’ compensation claim.
- Vehicle accidents affect a wide range of occupations other than just truckers.
- Neck injuries are among the top diagnoses.
- The duration of motor vehicle accident workers’ comp claims is more than a third longer than the average claim.
- There is a significant amount of subrogation in workers’ comp traffic accident claims, with such claims accounting for more than half of all claims with subrogation.
- Motor vehicle claims are three times as likely to involve a claimant attorney compared with other claims.
- Distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of accidents and close calls.
Safe-driving rules for your staff
Encourage your employees to drive safely and abide by the safety rules you establish.
A good set of rules, drawn up by OSHA and which should be in writing for your employees, is:
- Wear a seat belt at all times – driver and passenger(s).
- Be well-rested before driving.
- Avoid taking medications that make you drowsy.
- Set a realistic goal for the number of miles that you can drive safely each day.
- Do not use a cell phone while driving, unless you are wearing a hands-free device. Do not send text messages.
- Avoid distractions, such as adjusting the radio or other controls, eating or drinking.
- Continually search the roadway to be alert to situations requiring quick action.
- Stop about every two hours for a break. Get out of the vehicle to stretch, take a walk, and get refreshed.
- Keep your cool in traffic!
- Be patient and courteous to other drivers.
- Do not take other drivers’ actions personally.
- Reduce your stress by planning your route ahead of time (bring maps and directions), allowing plenty of travel time, and avoiding crowded roadways and busy driving times.