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devices in vehicles, professional drivers and individual owner-operators are making it a top priority to take measures that protect themselves – and others – on the road. Implement and Enforce Policies According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), around 500,000 trucking accidents occur every year in the United States, many of which can be attributed to distracted driving. To avoid such incidents there are a variety of software solutions available today that professional drivers and individual owner-operators can implement to enforce the safe, legal and responsible use of mobile devices. For example, Aegis Mobility's FleetSafer software automatically detects when a vehicle is in a driving state and places the mobile device in safe mode, eliminating distraction. To further safeguard against distractions, some of the most advanced solutions are also tamper-proof in order to prevent drivers from circumventing the safe mode while driving. In addition, today's top options include an easy-to-use administrative portal, allowing for simple and fl exible monitoring of user activity to ensure compliance with safe driving guidelines. Uphold Industry Values According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, trucking is the eighth-most dangerous job in terms of deaths per worker. With such high risks, trucking professionals and companies must recognize the unparalleled value in implementing safe driving solutions. In addition to helping comply with FMCSA regulations, safe driving solutions can also allow professional drivers and individual owner-operators to: Reduce liability and costs: According to the National Safety Council, the average work-related motor vehicle injury claim costs $69,206. With an innovative software system, professional drivers and individual owner-operators can reduce potential personal and organizational liabilities associated with accidents. Advocate for safe driving: Professional drivers and individual owner-operators have the ability to be at the forefront of a national effort to promote safe driving. With increases in legislation to prevent distracted driving, professional drivers and individual owner-operators can take a proactive stance on a critical public safety issue. Reinforce commitment to safety: According to the Traveler's Risk Control, many professional drivers feel pressure to respond to emails and messages, especially from managers while on the road. By using a safe driving solution, owner- operators have the ability to protect drivers and create a culture committed to safety. Though distraction behind the wheel is a widespread issue for all drivers, those operating CMVs are held to higher standards due to the nature of the industry. By utilizing safe driving solutions, individual owner-operators and professional drivers can help to reduce the number and severity of crashes.• Paul Zimmerman is CEO of Aegis Mobility, the global leader in solutions to prevent distracted driving including the company's cutting-edge FleetSafer software solution for businesses. Zimmerman has more than 25 years of experience in global business leadership in telecommunications, computing and consumer electronics. For more information, visit www.aegismobility.com. • • • September 2014 DrivingForceMag.com 13