Hi, a member of the ShopCare community has asked if they can get assistance in writing a policy for in car/vehicle phone usage, keeping in mind the current law. Do any of the forum members have a working policy that they would be happy to share?
Best policy is driver's phones off in moving vehicles. 2nd best is use hands free to ascertain whether its a quick response required and if not pull over to complete the call
Consider why policies are required and how wide or narrow the scope is. The objective is important.
Consider also what is wanted and what is needed. Are they identical.
I'd second KeithH in asking what they're trying to achieve by adding a policy.
Allow me to be contrary.
Any distractions are detrimental to driving concentration. Changing radio channel, adjusting temperature, eating, drinking, talking with passengers etc. all distract from the primary task of keeping the vehicle on the road. Should we have policies for those?
And then the "No pressure to answer when the boss is calling - the boss will not get grumpy" policy?
I'd flip my response around and ask how ShopCare is helping their drivers be as competent as they can be. Do they put them through Defensive Driving courses, or practical courses, where they can learn far more holistically?