Despite a recent rise in work-from-home arrangements, many employees still commute daily or at least multiple times a week. They may spend half an hour or longer getting to and from their jobs. Every time a worker commutes, they put themselves at risk of injury or worse. Collisions are a known safety hazard, and commuters may be at higher risk than they realize.
What might contribute to a worker’s risk during their daily commute?
Traveling at a dangerous time of day
Employees who work second or third shift often head into work or home from work when it is dark outside. During the winter months, even first-shift workers may commute one way in the dark. According to the National Safety Council, the nighttime is the most dangerous time to be on the road. First and second-shift workers may also be on the road at the second most dangerous time of the day. On weeknights between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., the possibility of a crash is far higher than it is at other times throughout the week.
Becoming distracted during the commute
Driving the same route twice a day, every day can give people a false sense of security. They believe that because they know the way so well, their chances of getting into a crash are lower than they might be on unfamiliar roads. However, complacency is very dangerous for drivers. They might let themselves engage in distracting behaviors, such as eating breakfast on the way to work or responding to client emails on the way home. They may also roll through stop signs or speed, especially if they find themselves running late.
Professionals can encounter others who are distracted or even drunk on their way to or from work. Even the most safety-conscious driver is vulnerable to the bad decisions of others. The unfortunate reality is that the commute to work can lead to injury or worse for professionals. Those involved in motor vehicle collisions often need help seeking compensation for their property damage losses and injuries. Being proactive about safety can help drivers avoid fault, which improves their chances of obtaining compensation from others in the event of a crash.