Control Your Speed and Focus: Dangerous Driving
High-Risk Driving Behavior
Dangerous and Distracted Driving represents a critical safety risk with 22,159 violations monthly. This group includes common violations such as Speeding at various levels. It also includes Phone Call and Texting while driving. General Dangerous Driving behaviors like erratic lane changes are also covered. This category is unique because it measures the driver’s direct behavior, not just vehicle condition. Distraction, especially from handheld mobile devices, is proven to be a leading cause of accidents. When drivers speed, they reduce their ability to react to sudden braking or traffic changes. Addressing these behaviors is the most direct way to prevent crashes.
Severe Fines and Driver Disqualification
Distracted driving violations carry some of the most punishing fines. Drivers can be penalized up to $2,750 for using a handheld mobile phone or texting while driving. Carriers can face civil penalties up to $11,000 for allowing or requiring this behavior. Speeding 15 mph or more over the limit is a “Serious traffic violation.” This results in driver disqualification. Two convictions in three years mean a 60-day CDL disqualification. Three convictions result in a 120-day loss of license. These violations heavily impact the CSA Unsafe Driving BASIC score. This is a major factor in a carrier’s overall safety fitness rating.
Preventive Technology and Policy
Fleet managers must establish a zero-tolerance policy on handheld mobile device use. This policy should be clearly communicated and strictly enforced. Use telematics and in-cab camera systems to monitor driver behavior for speeding and distraction. These systems provide real-time alerts and video evidence for coaching. Implement a driver risk scoring program. This identifies and prioritizes drivers who frequently speed or have distraction incidents. Training should emphasize defensive driving techniques. It must also cover the high risk associated with following too closely. A key administrative check is to ensure that drivers always secure the vehicle by setting the parking brakes. This prevents Failure to Prevent Movement incidents.
Dealing with Citations
Drivers must be trained to remain respectful and cooperative when stopped for a moving violation. The driver should never admit guilt at the roadside. For a speeding or distracted driving ticket, the driver must immediately report the citation to the safety department. Managers should initiate a review of the incident using ELD or camera data. If the citation is accurate, the company must provide remedial training and enforce disciplinary action. Since these tickets are tied to the driver’s CDL, managers should have a procedure to support drivers contesting wrongful citations. This protects driver employment while adhering to safety standards.
Systemic Behavioral Correction
The long-term solution lies in behavioral modification. Conduct mandatory, quarterly safety meetings using video footage from your fleet’s camera systems. This helps illustrate the dangers of distracted driving. Incentivize safe driving by rewarding drivers with the lowest Unsafe Driving BASIC scores. For drivers with repeat violations, a one-on-one session with the safety manager is necessary. The focus should be on why the driver feels the need to speed or use a phone. Addressing issues like unrealistic scheduling can help fix the root cause of these dangerous behaviors.
