For years, the conversation about distracted operation in trucking focused on driver behavior; however, increasing digitalization has made it clear that the problem is also related to how companies organize road work.
Today, operators maintain constant communication with monitoring centers , receive real-time instructions, and use navigation apps and digital tools to perform their tasks. In this context, reducing distracted operation involves much more than simply prohibiting cell phone use: it requires reviewing processes, strengthening a safety culture, and leveraging technology designed to mitigate risks .
That is one of the main conclusions of the study “Behind the wheel: Distracted driving in physical operations” , prepared by Samsara from a survey of more than 1,550 commercial operators from seven countries, including Mexico, belonging to 21 industries.
Work can also become a distraction
The study found that 79% of operators experienced, during the last year, at least one “near miss” or close incident related to some distraction while driving, while 93% stated that they had faced consequences such as property damage, injuries, fines or even legal proceedings resulting from these types of situations.
Although the cell phone continues to be the main distraction factor , the report shows a relevant nuance for companies: many of the activities that divert attention are part of the operation itself.
74 % of operators indicated that they use mobile phones or other technologies to perform work-related tasks while operating the tractor-trailer. Furthermore, the operators themselves identified reducing work calls and messages during trips , improving communication tools, and having more efficient in-cab navigation systems as priorities.
These results suggest that prevention no longer depends solely on the operator’s discipline, but also on the operational design and the way in which organizations manage the information that their operators receive during the workday.
Another change reflected in the study is the evolution in the perception of monitoring technologies.
For years, tools like dashboard cameras were primarily associated with monitoring mechanisms. However, the operators surveyed show a different view.
Ninety-three percent said that watching footage of their own surgery increased their awareness of distractions while driving , while 60% acknowledged modifying their driving habits after reviewing the footage. Only 6% indicated that these tools did not produce any changes in their behavior.
Furthermore, the technology that operators consider most useful for improving safety corresponds to artificial intelligence (AI)-powered systems capable of detecting distractions and issuing real-time alerts , followed by better hands-free communication systems, voice-activated functions, and tools that reduce unnecessary notifications during operation.
Rather than replacing the operator, these solutions seek to anticipate risks and support decision-making before an incident occurs.
Safety also influences the operator’s retention
The study also shows that safety strategies are beginning to have an impact that goes beyond accident prevention.
Nine out of ten operators stated they would be more likely to stay with a company that implements measures to prevent distractions . For a sector facing difficulties in attracting and retaining talent, safety is also becoming a key element of job competitiveness.
Training is part of that strategy. Ninety-five percent of operators who receive advice or training on distracted driving felt that these actions have positively improved their driving habits. Globally, digital training has become the primary method used by companies , followed by in-person counseling and in-cab alerts.
From punishment to prevention
The results also reflect a change in the way security policies are understood.
While 82 % of operators considered their companies’ current policies effective , respondents indicated that the measures with the greatest potential to reduce distracted driving are not limited to penalties.
Among the most highly valued actions are mandatory training programs, awareness campaigns, the application of rules on the use of mobile devices , and regulations to combat fatigue.
Furthermore, 82% of operators considered that incentives and recognition from companies are more effective in discouraging distracted driving than punitive measures.
A change of focus for operations
Distracted driving will continue to be one of the main risks for trucking. However, the study suggested that its prevention can no longer be addressed solely through the individual responsibility of the driver.
As operations incorporate more digital tools and communication between operators and control centers becomes permanent, companies face the challenge of building operating models that reduce distractions without impacting productivity .
In this scenario, the combination of technology, training, better-designed processes, and an organizational culture focused on prevention is beginning to emerge as a comprehensive strategy to improve safety, strengthen operator retention, and make transportation operations more efficient.
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