Roadway Safety starts with people like Matt. He’s a seasoned delivery driver with twenty years behind the wheel, a standout in his company’s logistics team, and like many in his field, a quiet safety hero. But last year, during a routine morning route, Matt felt a sharp pain radiate from his lower back up through his shoulder. He dismissed it, adjusted his seat, and continued driving.
It wasn’t until weeks later, after sleepless nights and pain from even basic movements, that he spoke up. His injury crept in like a hidden pothole: invisible, but dangerous.
Matt isn’t alone.
Week 3 of National Safety Month spotlights the urgent need for roadway safety and responsible driving, especially emphasizing the critical role of driver ergonomics in preventing musculoskeletal injuries. From posture strain to repetitive motion risks, protecting drivers means going beyond the road; it starts inside the vehicle. Safer habits. Smarter design. Fewer injuries. Roadway Safety is essential for every driver as we prioritize well-being on our roads. The commitment to roadway safety ensures every journey is taken with care.
The Stats Are Clear: The Road Is Risky
In 2024, 39,345 lives were lost in traffic incidents, many involving workers like Matt. While total traffic fatalities have declined slightly from 2023, roadway crashes remain the number one cause of work-related deaths in the U.S. Motor vehicle crashes account for roughly 25–40% of all occupational fatalities, making roadway safety not just a transportation issue but a vital workplace health priority. Addressing roadway safety is crucial for reducing these tragic numbers.
For employers, particularly in logistics, manufacturing, and utilities, roadway safety is an EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety) concern that demands attention.
What Safety Managers Can Learn
This connection between safety and emotional engagement can't be overstated. Research shows that employees who spend long hours driving, whether it’s an 18-wheeler, a utility van, or a company car, face a unique blend of risks:
- Fatigue from extended shifts
- Poor ergonomics in aging or improperly adjusted vehicles
- Repetitive strain from posture, vibrations, and static seating
- Limited movement, circulation, and hydration
Without proactive prevention, these risks silently undermine health, productivity, and morale.
Video Highlights from Cheryl
Learn practical safety tips and exercises from Cheryl, one of DORN’s leading ergonomic experts:
Avoiding Distracted Driving
Easy-to-follow tips to reduce distractions and stay focused behind the wheel. Cheryl highlights common driving hazards and shows how to maintain safe attention on the road.
Safe Vehicle Entry and Exit
This video demonstrates how to safely enter and exit large vehicles like loaders or trucks without injury. Cheryl shares the essential "three points of contact" rule and shows how to protect your back and knees.
Winter Driving Safety Tips
Stay safe on icy roads with Cheryl’s winter-specific driving advice. Learn what to do before you start the vehicle, how to drive in harsh conditions, and stay prepared through the season.
Smart Ergonomic Fixes That Work
Here are three field-tested improvements any team can adopt:
Microlearning Moments
Use short videos in morning briefings or safety huddles. Keep them consistent, accessible, and multilingual.
Seat Support Kits
Add adjustable lumbar cushions and seat wedges to your fleet. Back pain is the top driver complaint.
Mandatory Movement Breaks
Encourage 5-minute stretch-and-walk breaks every two hours. Schedule them into routes.
Driving Ergonomics: Key Principles for Long-Term Health :
For employees who drive frequently, proper ergonomics are essential to avoid long-term injury. Here are key practices:
- Seat Adjustment
- Height: Eyes should be at least three inches above the steering wheel.
- Distance: Knees slightly bent; two-finger gap behind them.
- Back Angle: Recline between 100–110 degrees.
- Lumbar Support: Match the spine’s curve with support.
- Seat Pan: Support thighs without compressing behind the knees.
- Steering Wheel Adjustment
- Distance: 10–12 inches from chest with relaxed, slightly bent arms.
- Height: Easy reach without obstructing view.
- Grip: Use 9 and 3 o’clock or 10 and 2, with minimal tension.
- Headrest Position
- Height: Even with the top of your head.
- Distance: Close, without strain.
- Additional Tips
- Breaks: 15 minutes every two hours.
- Posture: Adjust frequently, avoid slouching.
- Hand Position Changes: Reduce fatigue.
- Use Cruise Control: Allows leg movement.
- Comfortable Clothing: Avoid restrictive garments.
- Stay Hydrated.
- Use Ergonomic Accessories: Cushions, neck supports.
These strategies can help drivers stay healthy, reduce discomfort, and prevent injury on the job.
The EHS Manager's Roadmap
To embed roadway safety into your company’s culture:
- Conduct in-cab ergonomic assessments
- Host weekly huddles with safety video clips
- Post tip sheets in garages and dispatch centers
- Encourage buddy check-ins during long hauls
- Reward injury prevention participation
Your Moment to Act
EHS managers: Week 3 of National Safety Month is your cue to champion driver health. Share DORN's videos. Highlight real driver stories. Equip your team with simple tools for meaningful change.
Every safe journey begins with a small action. Let’s keep your workforce moving—safely and pain-free.
If you're looking to strengthen your workplace safety program, reduce injuries, or explore how ergonomic assessments can support your 2026 safety goals, we're here to help. Contact DORN today to learn more or schedule a consultation.
