How Occupational Stress and Fatigue Increase the Risk of Motor Vehicle Accidents in the Workplace

Work-related motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities in the United States. Recent data indicate that occupational stress and fatigue are major contributors, especially in professions with demanding schedules, high-stress environments, and frequent travel requirements.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 5,283 work-related fatalities in 2023. Transportation incidents were the leading cause, responsible for 1,942 deaths, or 36.8% of all occupational fatalities. This marks a slight decrease from the previous year but still highlights a pressing concern.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates the fatality rate at 3.5 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. These figures underscore the importance of addressing transportation safety within the context of occupational health. John Foy & Associates investigate this a bit further in this recent study. 

Professions with the Highest Motor Vehicle Accident Fatalities in 2023

Certain professions are disproportionately impacted by roadway fatalities. The following occupations reported the highest number of work-related motor vehicle deaths in 2023:

• Transportation and material moving occupations (e.g., truck drivers, delivery workers): 1,011 fatalities

• Construction workers: 243 fatalities

• Managers: 105 fatalities

• Protective service workers (e.g., police officers, firefighters): 98 fatalities

• Farmers, fishers, and forestry workers: 87 fatalities

• Healthcare and social assistance professionals (primarily women): 63 fatalities

• Retail workers (primarily women): 54 fatalities

These numbers reflect not only the physical risks of each role but also the broader impact of work-related stress, fatigue, and exposure to hazardous environments.

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Demographic Insights: Gender and Industry Trends

Workplace motor vehicle deaths also differ by gender and industry:

• Men accounted for 4,832 fatalities, while women accounted for 447.

• Among women, the most dangerous professions involved:

  • Healthcare and social assistance: 63 fatalities

  • Retail: 54 fatalities

Meanwhile, industries like fishing, construction, and transportation continue to report the highest fatality rates due to a combination of hazardous job conditions and high-risk driving scenarios.

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Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Several occupational factors increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents:

• Long hours and erratic schedules (especially in transportation) contribute to sleep deprivation, fatigue, and slower reaction times.

• Chronic stress in construction roles may affect concentration and decision-making on the road.

• Burnout among managers can reduce alertness and increase risky behavior during commutes.

• PTSD and trauma among protective service workers may contribute to distraction or impaired driving.

• Mental health struggles in agricultural and forestry jobs also play a role, with high stress levels often going unaddressed.

Research from the CDC, OSHA, and Cornell University also cites distracted driving, impaired driving, and adverse weather conditions as key contributors to occupational traffic accidents.

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Preventing Work-Related Vehicle Accidents: What Employers Can Do

Employers have a vital role in promoting safer roads for their workforce. Recommended strategies include:

• Implementing a formal driver safety program, as advised by OSHA, to train and guide employees on best practices.

• Maintaining vehicles regularly to reduce mechanical failure risks.

• Establishing zero-tolerance policies for impaired driving, both during and outside of work hours.

• Banning mobile phone use behind the wheel, including hands-free devices, to eliminate distractions.

• Educating employees on fatigue awareness, helping them recognize warning signs, and encouraging proper rest.

The National Safety Council and other safety organizations stress that proactive employer involvement can significantly reduce preventable motor vehicle accidents in the workplace.

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