Fleet managers are always looking for ways to improve driver safety and many of them rely on telematics to do so. However, while having the data is useful, combining it with outward facing cameras provides the visual component required to take safety initiatives to the next level. Many drivers’ initial reactions to having a camera in their cab are negative. However, once they see the benefits, they come to appreciate it.

Gaining an Objective Picture of Driver Behaviors

Telematics provide insights into how drivers handle their trucks. It can reveal hard braking, cornering, and other unsafe behaviors. However, telling drivers they’re braking too hard isn’t usually enough to effect change. When combined with video footage, drivers can see the effects of their actions behind the wheel. Fleets can also use the footage as a training tool to teach drivers safe habits.

While many drivers may approach camera integration with incredulity, the statistics show the trucking industry needs to make significant changes to prevent crashes and fatalities. From 2014 to 2015, trucking fatalities increased by eight percent. Since 2009, they increased by 26%. Injuries are on the rise as well with a 62% increase from 2009 through 2015. The number of fatalities and injuries are trending upward without a doubt; telematics and camera integration can help turn the tide.

Benefits of Coaching Drivers

The ability to coach drivers with telematics and video footage can reduce the number of accidents, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses. Some experts estimate the technology can prevent as many as 63,000 crashes, 17,733 injuries, and 293 deaths annually. Using telematics in combination with camera data can identify unsafe behaviors, help fleet managers coach drivers to improve these behaviors, and establish a benchmark to compare against going forward.

Changing Driver Mentality

Getting drivers onboard with the idea of telematics and cameras can be a challenge. While the improved safety component should be sufficient, fleets can also gamify the experience to improve compliance and perception. For example, fleets can create a scorecard system that monitors common unsafe behaviors. Some of the most common safety issues include:

  • Hard braking
  • Rolling stops
  • Hard cornering
  • Hard acceleration
  • Disobeying posted speed limits
  • Following too close

Drivers with the lowest number of the above unsafe instances can win a prize or bonus at the end of each month or quarter. Adding an incentive can go a long way toward improving drivers’ opinions about the change.  To learn more about incorporating telematics technology into your fleet, contact the experts at DriverCheck.