R&R Insurance Blog

In the midst of summer, many of us are spending long weekends in the car. Whether we're traveling a few hundred miles up north, or a few thousand miles down south, we're probably all looking for a distraction during the drive. While cell phones can provide great entertainment, it's important to remember the laws surrounding their use in vehicles. Below is an update on what is currently prohibited in Wisconsin:

• Text messaging outlawed for all drivers. Fines from $20 to $400 with a possible 4 points against the driver’s license. Primary enforcement.
• Drivers with restricted licenses prohibited from using cell phones.
• Drivers may not watch devices within vehicle providing entertainment through “primarily visual means.”
• Drivers prohibited from using handheld cell phones in construction zones. Takes effect Oct. 1, 2016.
• The state outlaws distracted driving, or “being so engaged or occupied as to interfere with the safe driving of that vehicle.” The fine is $173 and 4 points.

Click here to learn more about these laws and the fines associated with them. We hope you have a happy, safe and enjoyable summer with family and friends!

Contact a Knowledge Broker for more information.

According to the AAA Foundation, distracted driving causes about 8,000 accidents every single day! And the CDC reports that more than 15 people are killed and 1,200 injured every day in those accidents. Corporate fleets are not immune from those numbers. You expect your employees to multi-task all the time, but never expect that while they are behind the wheel.

There are three main types of distraction:

1. Visual – taking your eyes off the road (i.e.: looking at a map or for a landmark or address if the driver is not sure where they are going before the trip)
2. Manual - taking your hands off the wheel (i.e. reaching for the radio or two way radio while driving)
3. Cognitive - taking your mind off what you are doing (paying more attention to work situations or the next job site)

Fleet drivers should have one goal and one goal only; operating their vehicle safely and efficiently from point A to point B.

While driving, there should be no other tasks, no other distractions, nothing is more important. R&R Insurance offers Distracted Driving window clings to remind your drivers and others on the road to stop the distraction. Wisconsin businesses, if you would like a sample of our Distracted Driving window clings, use our convenient order form and we will send you a sample - or a few - depending on your needs.

Fleet Safety Essentials – It’s About The Driver!

Top 9 Driving While Texting Infographics

For more information about fleet safety and property casualty insurance, contact knowledgebroker Bill Katzfey.