5 Reasons Your Fleet should be using Dash Cams
Dash cam technology is helping fleet managers all over Australia run safer and more efficient vehicle fleets. That's because they are fast becoming an essential tool for improving driver safety, providing feedback on driver behaviour, and providing video evidence after an incident.
When paired with fleet management software, dash cams can provide valuable insights on the fleet's overall performance and help you make data-driven decisions. They can also help you ensure you are compliant with all your health & safety and Chain of Responsibility (CoR) requirements.
Dash cams are simple to set up and often only require a connection to the vehicle's power supply. When paired with an asset tracking or telematics system, dash cam data is instantly accessible to view. Monitor live data on speed, braking information, tyre pressure and other vital vehicle information, along with insights from your onboard dash cams.
Cameras can be road- or driver-facing, but many modern options do both. If they have artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) embedded in the solution, these cameras can identify hazards in real-time and help drivers react more quickly. This can significantly reduce preventable accidents.
AI-powered dash cams use facial recognition and eye-mapping to identify high-risk factors such as driver fatigue, mobile use and other distractions.
The use of dash cams in fleets is increasing exponentially, as fleet managers turn to technology to help them keep their drivers safe and protect valuable assets. While some drivers might not appreciate this degree of monitoring, dash cams can provide evidence against false claims - often to the driver's benefit - and makes the road safer for everyone.
It's not just businesses that are taking notice either. Research from Allianz Australia revealed that 20% of all Aussie drivers now record their car trips with this technology, with usage set to increase.
5 key benefits of using dash cams
1. Protection against false claims.
Dash cams are a critical tool for protecting your company and drivers from false claims. Fleet managers can use video from dash cams as solid, irrefutable evidence to either support or dismiss claims made in the event of an accident. This can resolve driving disputes a lot quicker and provide greater peace of mind for drivers and fleet managers.
2. Encourages and reinforces safe driving behaviour.
AI technology built into modern dash cams can predict unsafe behaviour and alert drivers and managers. This includes behaviours such as taking their eyes off the road for an extended time. The moment it detects a specific unsafe behaviour, it alerts drivers to self-correct. This helps to identify and eliminate poor driver habits, contributing to a safer workplace culture.
3. Insurance savings.
Dash cams connected to fleet management software can save on insurance costs. It's now common for insurance providers to provide discounts or other insurance premium reductions for fleets which have dash cams installed. The evidence they provide can also help speed up the insurance claims process. Using dash cams also demonstrates to your drivers you're serious about their safety.
4. Safety training and support.
Near misses, or accidents caught on camera, provide examples for driver safety education, while real-time driving feedback encourages drivers to make better choices on the road. Additionally, having a record of the number of unsafe driving alerts attributed to each driver can promote a healthy competition and movement towards an internal culture of excellence when it comes to safety. This provides ongoing training and support to your fleet drivers.
5. Fleet security.
Dash cams and fleet management software are excellent preventive security tools that help reduce break-ins, vandalism, and asset loss. Many dash cams activate when the vehicle is started and, if there's unauthorised access, the cameras can identify the offender and help locate and recover your vehicle.