Could one tired driver cost your business thousands or even more? Drowsy driving happens when a driver operates a vehicle while feeling sleepy or fatigued. For businesses that rely on employees to travel, make deliveries, or visit clients, drowsy driving isn’t just a safety concern. It’s a major business risk!
According to recent data, 14% of Americans admit they’ve fallen asleep at the wheel and the trend is on the rise. In Pennsylvania, with busy routes like 422, I-176, and the Turnpike, the risks can multiply quickly for companies that keep vehicles on the road.
The Real Risks of Sleep-Deprived Driving
Drowsy driving reduces reaction times, slows decision-making, and impairs attention, increasing the likelihood of accidents. For business owners, this can mean costly repairs, higher insurance premiums, legal liabilities, lost productivity, and even damage to your reputation.
7 Ways Drowsy Driving Can Impact Your Business
- Accidents That Damage Company Vehicles – Repairs can cost thousands, plus the loss of use disrupts operations.
- Injury to Employees – Workplace injuries trigger workers’ compensation claims and potential lost-time expenses.
- Injury to Others – Your business could be liable for damages to third parties.
- Delivery Delays & Missed Appointments – Poor performance can hurt client relationships.
- Increased Insurance Costs – Claims history can raise premiums over time.
- Legal Action – Serious incidents may lead to lawsuits, especially if negligence is alleged.
- Reputation Damage – One bad incident can spread quickly online, impacting trust and future sales.
The Business Case for Prevention
| Risk Area | Potential Cost to Your Business | Preventive Steps |
| Accident repairs | $2,500–$15,000+ | Enforce rest breaks, use safe driving policies |
| Employee injury claims | $20,000 average per claim | Provide health & safety training |
| Third-party injury lawsuits | $100,000+ in severe cases | Maintain proper commercial auto coverage |
| Lost contracts or clients | Varies | Communicate delays & prioritize reliability |
Practical Tips to Keep Your Drivers Alert
- Set Clear Driving Policies: Limit overnight driving or long shifts without rest.
- Encourage Rest Before Trips: Employees should get at least 7 hours of sleep before extended drives.
- Use Buddy Systems: For longer trips, assign two drivers so they can alternate.
- Promote Breaks: Encourage short breaks every 2–3 hours to stretch and recharge.
- Watch for Warning Signs: Lane drifting, frequent yawning, or heavy eyelids mean it’s time to pull over.
Your Coverage Matters, Too
Even with the best prevention, accidents can happen. That’s where the right commercial auto insurance and workers’ compensation coverage come in. At Rothenberger Insurance Services, we work with more than 22 insurance companies to help local businesses find protection that fits, without paying for what you don’t need.
“When your employees are on the road, they are representing your business. Protecting them protects you both in safety and in reputation. The right coverage makes sure you’re not left picking up the pieces alone.”
– Ron Rothenberger, Owner, Rothenberger Insurance Services
Don’t wait until a preventable accident costs you your next big contract. Call Rothenberger Insurance Services today for a no-obligation review of your business coverage. We’ll help you spot the gaps, close them affordably, and keep your business moving forward safely and securely.
📞 Call us now to get started before the next trip hits the road.