In today’s technology dependent world, it’s probably safe to say the majority of working adults have cell phones. It may also be safe to say that many of those adults may use their cell phones for work related tasks. We’ve all heard the media surrounding the risk of cell phone use while driving. According to John Hopkins University, as individuals focus on listening and engaging in conversation, the activity in the visual part of the brain decreases, even while using a hands-free device.*
If you have employees driving on company time, you could be held liable if they cause or are involved in an accident. Look at this case study for example:
A Georgia employee making a business call while
driving hit and caused serious injury to another
driver. The employee’s company agreed to pay $5
million in damages after the court found that the
company was liable since the employee was making a
business-related call.
How would you like to be that employer? I’m betting your answer is you wouldn’t. While you can’t guarantee defense to liability, you can lessen your risk by developing cell phone use policy, educate your employees about the dangers, and require written acknowledgements from employees verifying they understand what is expected of them.
Need help getting a policy in place? We can help, call us today 419-522-9892 to get started.
Image Source: TalkingDC, Flickr
* Multitasking: You Can’t Pay Full Attention to Sights, Sounds, John Hopkins University, June 2005