Employers could be overlooking a driver distraction risk created by smartwatches linked to workplace technology, Fleet Operations has warned.

The fleet management specialist says wearable tech should now form part of businesses’ approach to managing driver distraction, particularly where smartwatches are connected to company smartphones, work email accounts and workplace messaging apps.

Messages, emails, calendar reminders and other notifications can all be delivered directly to a driver’s wrist, potentially taking their attention away from the road even when their mobile phone remains untouched.

“Most organisations have clear policies covering mobile phone use behind the wheel, but smartwatches can easily fall outside these controls,” said Tony Greenidge, Head of Driver Risk Management at Fleet Operations.

“When a smartwatch is connected to work email, messaging platforms or a company phone, it can effectively bring workplace notifications directly into the vehicle.

“A vibrating watch displaying a message, email or other alert may seem less intrusive than a mobile phone, but it can still divert a driver’s attention at a critical moment.”

Fleet Operations says businesses should review their fleet and occupational road risk policies to ensure wearable technology is specifically addressed, rather than assuming existing rules on mobile phone use are sufficient.

This should include considering whether smartwatch notifications need to be disabled while driving, making sure employees understand the distraction risks associated with wearable devices and setting clear expectations around what is and is not acceptable behind the wheel.

“Workplace technology is evolving quickly, so employers need to make sure their driving-for-work policies keep pace,” Greenidge added.

“Driver distraction is not simply about whether someone is holding a phone. Anything that takes a driver’s eyes, hands or concentration away from the task of driving can increase risk.”

The warning comes as Department for Transport figures show that mobile device use was recorded as a factor in 3.2% of fatal collisions in Great Britain in 2025.

Greenidge says employers should regularly review emerging technology and consider how it’s being used by employees who drive for work.

“Smartwatches linked to workplace systems are a good example of how the technology employees use can change faster than the policies designed to manage the risks,” he added.