In support of Buckle Up America Week, May 22-29, the Minnesota Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) is urging employers to take action against one of the biggest health and safety problem facing today''s businesses: motor vehicle crashes.
Traffic injuries are the leading cause of work-related deaths nationally and in Minnesota, according to NETS.
Transportation incidents are responsible for 44 percent of worker death each year in Minnesota, according to the latest information available from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
Nationally, motor vehicle crashes kill three workers every day and cost employers more than $50 billion each year in medical care, legal expenses, property damage and lost productivity.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, an on-the-job crash that results in injuries costs the employer more than $24,000. An off-the-job crash that causes injury is almost as expensive, averaging $18,000 in employer cost.
While most companies limit traffic safety programs to fleet drivers, Minnesota NETS advocates driving safety programs for all employees.
NETS provides programs, materials and services designed to reach employees at work and beyond.
For more information about workplace and community campaign materials and services, contact Minnesota NETS at (800) 444-9150.
by Virginia Sutcliffe