While overall workers’ compensation claims have declined in recent years, the severity and cost of motor vehicle accidents remain alarmingly high — especially those involving distracted drivers. Smartphones, in particular, have become one of the leading contributors to on-the-job car accidents in Colorado and across the nation.
According to recent data from the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI):
- Motor vehicle claims are over 70% more expensive than the average lost-time claim.
- These accidents account for over 20% of permanent total losses and about one-third of all fatal losses.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 3,275 people died in crashes involving distracted drivers in 2023. While distracted driving dropped by 8.6% in 2024 — preventing an estimated 105,000 crashes and 480 fatalities — drivers still spent nearly two minutes per hour interacting with their phones, according to Cambridge Mobile Telematics.
How Smartphones Contribute to Distracted Driving and Workplace Accidents
Over the past decade, smartphone use behind the wheel has skyrocketed. Drivers of all ages continue to multitask on their devices — from navigating with GPS and streaming music to checking messages and emails. Unfortunately, these seemingly harmless actions can lead to devastating consequences, especially for employees driving as part of their job duties.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Every day, nine people die in accidents caused by distracted driving.
- At any given moment, around 660,000 drivers in the U.S. are actively using cell phones.
- Smartphones are involved in 10% of all fatal crashes and 18% of all injury crashes — and those numbers continue to climb.
Further Reading: Little Follow-Up Care for Mild Brain Injuries Can be Dangerous
Despite public awareness campaigns and safety laws, distracted driving remains a widespread issue. The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) notes that only 15 states prohibit all drivers from using handheld phones, while 47 states have enacted some form of texting-while-driving laws.
The Workplace Risk: When “Checking Work Messages” Becomes Dangerous
Many employees today perform job-related tasks behind the wheel — checking work emails, calling clients, or responding to texts. Unfortunately, these behaviors blur the line between productivity and danger.
When a driver causes an accident while on the job, determining liability can become complex. Depending on the situation, both the driver and their employer could be held responsible.
If you were injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, an experienced Colorado Springs car accident attorney can help by:
- Investigating the cause of the crash
- Identifying all potentially liable parties
- Handling communications with insurance companies
- Pursuing maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Remember: even if the at-fault driver was “on the clock,” you may have a right to seek compensation from their employer under Colorado law.
Contact Our Colorado Springs Car Accident Lawyers Today
Have you been injured in an accident caused by a distracted or negligent driver? Are you worried about paying medical expenses or lost income? The attorneys at Schofield & Green Law Firm are here to help.
Our skilled Colorado Springs car accident lawyers have extensive experience handling on-the-job vehicle accidents and distracted driving claims. We will fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (719) 694-8515 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and discuss your case.
