Nearly 1,600 U.S. companies have adopted distracted driving policies to date, according to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS). (NETS is an employer-led public-private partnership developed by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to engage the private sector to promote anti-distracted driving policies in the workplace.)

In addition, 550 organizations have committed to adopting similar policies within the next 12 months.

"I am thrilled that businesses across the country are making anti-distracted driving policies an integral part of their employee culture," said DOT Secretary Ray LaHood. "President Obama led by example last year by banning four million federal workers from texting behind the wheel. Employers across America are doing the same to help us set an example and keep our roads safe."

Orlando, Fla.-based SuperGlass Windshield Repair recently enacted its own policy for talking or texting while driving.

"The safety issues are apparent and undeniable and could cause you great harm and pain," writes SuperGlass in its latest newsletter explaining the new policy. "The liability and publicity issues can cause you to lose your business, your reputation and your fortune."

And, though some say instating such a policy can require a total change in culture, most understand the need for such a policy, says SuperGlass founder and president David Casey.

"Our people accepted the message about distracted driving very well," he says.

Casey says he developed a voicemail message for employees to utilize to explain why they're not answering.

The message includes the following: "I am sorry that you reached my voicemail but, in an effort to prevent distracted driving, please leave a message and I will return your call as soon as I can safely stop my vehicle and operate my telephone."

And, when potential customers hear this message, sometimes an added benefit is there.

"You might even get some credit for being innovative, safe and diligent," says Casey.

Casey adds, "If your job is being a mobile technician, part of that job is being a safe mobile tech for others."

Need more info and analysis about the issues?
CLICK HERE to subscribe to AGRR magazine.