Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of fatalities among workers by a 2:1 margin
Denver, CO – May 29, 2024 – As we head into the summer months, Pinnacol Assurance, Colorado's leading workers' compensation insurer, is urging employers to be proactive in reviewing and enhancing their vehicle safety protocols, highlighting that accidents that occur when employees are driving are a critical issue in workplace safety.
Summer months are some of the busiest for our roads, further increasing the risk of motor vehicle accidents. According to Pinnacol, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of fatalities among workers by a 2:1 margin, suggesting employers across various industries should exercise proactive planning and education to help mitigate the risk of motor vehicle-related accidents.
Professions most at risk of these accidents include healthcare workers, truckers, noncommercial drivers, auto service and repair, and police officers. Pinnacol also found that the riskiest times for accidents are at peak drive times of 9 and 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Just over a quarter of fatal accidents involved someone who wasn’t wearing a seatbelt, speeding, running a red light or intoxication.
"The data is clear – motor vehicle accidents pose a significant threat to workplace safety,” said Monica Cabrera, Pinnacol’s Safety Learning Specialist. “It's imperative for employers to actively engage in preventative measures, such as implementing a defensive driving program. Such programs not only educate employees on safe driving practices but also foster a culture of safety that extends beyond the workplace."
Injuries most commonly sustained in these accidents range from sprains, strains and fractures to traumatic brain injuries and amputations, underlining the devastating impact on employees' health and wellbeing.
Pinnacol's safety consultants emphasize several key strategies that could mitigate the risk of injuries and even death, including strict adherence to seat belt use, minimizing distractions, particularly cell phone use while driving, and comprehensive employee training.
“When businesses prioritize employee safety on the road, they can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, ultimately saving lives and reducing financial burdens,” said Cabrera.
Pinnacol also cautions drivers to take proactive measures to limit distracted driving. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, distracted driving accounts for over 3,000 deaths on our nation’s roads each year. Colorado leaders recently passed legislation that, beginning in 2025, takes meaningful steps toward restricting the use of cell phones while driving unless using a hands-free device.
“All of our state's workers deserve to get home safely, said Colorado State Senator Chris Hansen, a prime sponsor of 2024 legislation to prohibit the use of mobile devices when driving unless used with a hands-free accessory. “Keeping our hands on the steering wheel will help prevent tragedies that claim far too many lives on our roads each year. This new law leverages readily available technology and tools to reduce distracted driving and create safer roads for our state's essential travelers.”
For more information on workplace safety and to access resources for implementing effective vehicle safety programs, visit safety.pinnacol.com.
About Pinnacol
Pinnacol Assurance is a top-performing provider of workers’ compensation insurance. Our nationwide coverage goes wherever businesses grow to provide them with caring and reliable protection. We offer top-rated injured worker care, customized safety solutions and a comprehensive return to work program that helps our customers reduce risk and save costs. You can see our investment in the community through our nationally recognized apprenticeship program, Pinnacol Foundation scholarship program and award-winning diversity, equity and inclusion work. Pinnacol’s team members, culture and services have received numerous awards, affirming our commitment to the people and communities we serve. Learn more at Pinnacol.com.
