Workplace motor vehicle accidents remain a leading cause of occupational fatalities in the U.S.—and new findings from John Foy & Associates suggest that stress and fatigue play a much larger role than many realize.
In their recent study, the personal injury law firm explored national data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), OSHA, and other sources to investigate the relationship between high-stress work environments, mental fatigue, and transportation-related workplace deaths. The results reinforce the need for improved safety practices, especially in roles that involve regular driving or long commutes.
According to the BLS, 5,283 work-related fatalities were reported in 2023, and transportation incidents accounted for 1,942 of those deaths—36.8% of all cases. Although this reflects a slight drop from 2022, motor vehicle fatalities remain the number one cause of work-related deaths in the country.
Which Jobs Are at Risk?
The John Foy & Associates study identified the top occupations with the highest number of motor vehicle fatalities in 2023:
- Transportation and material moving – 1,011 deaths
- Construction – 243 deaths
- Managers (various sectors) – 105 deaths
- Protective service (e.g., police, firefighters) – 98 deaths
- Agriculture, fishing, and forestry – 87 deaths
- Healthcare and social assistance – 63 deaths
- Retail – 54 deaths
These findings highlight the wide range of industries impacted by road-related fatalities—from truck drivers and contractors to social workers and retail employees.
Gender, Industry & Driving Behavior
The study also broke down fatalities by gender. In 2023, men made up 4,832 of the 5,283 total work-related deaths, while women accounted for 447. However, women were disproportionately affected in certain roles:
- Healthcare and social assistance – 63 deaths
- Retail – 54 deaths
This suggests that while men are more likely to work in traditionally high-risk fields like construction or transportation, women face elevated risks in care-based roles that often require extensive driving between locations.
The Role of Stress and Fatigue
The research found that stress and mental fatigue are underappreciated but critical factors contributing to road risk. These invisible burdens often impair focus and reaction time, especially in jobs with long hours or high emotional demand. Key issues include:
- Shift work and irregular hours in transport, emergency services, and healthcare.
- Chronic workplace stress in management, construction, and customer-facing roles.
- Burnout and trauma exposure, particularly among protective service professionals.
- Rural isolation, long commutes, and poor access to support in farming and forestry.
According to supplemental data from the CDC and Cornell University, these stressors are linked to increased rates of distracted driving, speeding, and poor decision-making behind the wheel.
What Employers Can Do
Based on the findings, John Foy & Associates recommends several steps employers can take to reduce transportation-related workplace fatalities:
- Driver safety programs – Develop policies that prioritize safe driving behaviors and include routine training.
- Vehicle maintenance schedules – Ensure fleet safety through regular inspections and upkeep.
- No-phone policies – Eliminate distractions by banning phone use—even hands-free—while driving.
- Fatigue education – Offer resources on managing stress, sleep, and mental health.
- Impairment enforcement – Prohibit not only intoxicated driving, but also prescription side effects or extreme exhaustion.
Organizations that build a strong culture around safety, wellness, and mental health are more likely to protect their employees and reduce fatal incidents.
Final Thoughts
The 2023 data paints a clear picture: occupational vehicle deaths are not just about driver error—they’re about working conditions.
With transportation-related incidents responsible for more than one-third of workplace fatalities, companies must look beyond traditional safety metrics and account for the toll of stress and fatigue.
“Stress is a silent risk factor on the road, and the data proves it,” said a spokesperson at John Foy & Associates. “It’s critical for employers to recognize that safer roads start with healthier work environments.”
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on research conducted by John Foy & Associates and other reputable sources, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics and OSHA. The findings do not constitute professional advice, and individuals or organizations seeking specific guidance should consult with relevant experts or legal professionals.
