The situation is all too familiar — a ping, a beep, a new notification — and suddenly, eyes drift from the road. In just seconds, a car cuts into the lane. There's no time to brake or steer safely and a collision becomes inevitable.
Data from the 2025 National Truck Accident Research Centre (NTARC) Major Incident Investigation Report1 reveals a stark reality — inattention and distraction remain the top driver behaviours causing trucking incidents, accounting for nearly one in every three reported claims.
As accident rates rise and operations become increasingly complex, addressing both inattention and distraction in truck drivers is crucial for ensuring safety, compliance and business profitability.
How to understand inattention and distraction for truck drivers
In Australia, the legal definitions of inattention and distraction vary by state, but the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) offers some guiding classifications to better understand the most common contributing factors in truck crashes.
- Inattention occurs when a driver's mind drifts away from the task of driving, making them less aware of their surroundings. This often occurs when drivers are tired and can lead to hazardous situations, such as microsleeps.
- Distraction occurs when something diverts the driver's attention away from driving, often due to devices inside the vehicle, such as phones and console screens. Modern truck technologies, including GPS and route-planning systems or electronic work diaries, can create distractions because they demand extra attention from the driver.
On the other hand, flat and uneventful roads can increase inattention, as the driver's mind can easily wander. Distractions can also arise from eating or drinking while driving.
Heavy vehicle incidents vary across Australia
Distraction-related incidents occur both in regional and urban networks, but the triggers differ.
"Outer regions like the Northern Territory or regional Victoria have longer roads and travel times are considerably extended," explains Jean-Pierre de Pradines, claims manager, National Transport, Gallagher.
"If the driver does not have much to stimulate their mind or keep them alert, inattention or any distraction could easily take their focus away from the road."
While fatigue-driven lapses are more common on regional routes, urban environments amplify the risks associated with technology and traffic density.
Contributing factors to inattention and distraction while driving
- Drivers' behaviours
- Cabin environment
- Technology complexity
Operational implications for heavy vehicle transport operators
Distraction-related incidents carry significant consequences. Beyond safety risks, they drive up claims costs, cause downtime and damage reputation.
Legally, failing to manage distraction can lead to National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) penalties. Under Chain of Responsibility (CoR) laws, operators are accountable for assessing the fitness of drivers for the work and ensuring that unnecessary risks, including those posed by in-cabin devices, are mitigated.
"Old school training taught us to look left, right and then check the mirrors again. Now, with the benefit of technology, all that information is right in front of you. I believe that the current technology many of our transport clients are investing in is not a distraction. It's a positive advancement because it empowers and enables drivers to be more alert," adds Jean-Pierre de Pradines.
Insurers also closely review distraction-related claims, which can potentially affect premiums and insurability.
Strategies to minimise distraction risks
Reducing distraction requires a holistic approach. This includes transport operators implementing driver wellbeing programs that combine physical health checks with mental health support and tailored insurance solutions addressing fatigue and distraction-related exposures.
"Monitoring driver behaviour — whether through telematics or other tools — is essential," says Andrew Wallace, client manager, Marine, Transport and Logistics at Gallagher. "Drivers must understand the serious risks and potential losses linked to distracted driving. Building this awareness is key to reducing incidents and improving safety."
Mitigation also means addressing technology-based distractions head-on. "It's tempting to use your phone to check the weather or message family," notes Adam Gibson, transport research manager at NTI Limited and a co-partner in the NTARC research and report. "But the risk is that you might not get home to them if you use it at the wrong time."
Encouraging open discussions about in-cabin hazards and collaborating with teams to manage mobile device use effectively are straightforward steps to foster a stronger safety culture.
Industry leaders are also setting safety benchmarks. One company prioritises safety with advanced systems, including infrared cameras that detect fatigue and vibrating seats. If the driver shows signs of drowsiness, the chair vibrates and a 24-hour call centre is alerted so the driver's conditions can be promptly verified. Such measures have proved effective for long-haul trips, demonstrating how technology can mitigate risk and protect lives.
Technology-based solutions
- Driver monitoring systems: Real-time alerts for fatigue and distraction.
- Telematics and dashcams: Enhance accountability and provide data for continuous improvement.
Human-centric initiatives
- Fatigue management programs: Structured rest breaks and wellness initiatives.
- Education and awareness campaigns: Reinforce safe behaviours and highlight risks of inappropriate speed and technology misuse.
Policy recommendations
- Clear guidelines for device use and route planning.
- Mandatory rest periods and compliance audits.
Partner with Australia's largest transport insurance broker
Distraction is the most pressing human-factor risk in heavy vehicle safety today. Building a safety-first culture, investing in training and leveraging smart technologies safeguards lives, reduces costs and ensures compliance. In a competitive industry, these measures are best practices and a strategic advantage.
As Australia's largest transport insurance broker, Gallagher offers expertise to support operators of all sizes, from single-truck owner-drivers to national fleets.
Partnering with our specialists can help future-proof your transport operation.
