Smile! You're on camera: How driver-facing cameras are impacting the trucking industry

Smile! You’re on camera: How driver-facing cameras are impacting the trucking industry

Every time we do a camera video, we get comments. Clearly some drivers aren’t too happy about cameras in the cab–believe it or not, we get why: The ‘big brother’ style of management is not one most people are fond of. 

But there are benefits. As a fleet manager responsible for spec’ing the equipment, it’s best to understand those advantages and how to communicate those with your drivers.

Monitor (and correct) unwanted driver behavior

When it comes to the significant weight  your drivers are hauling, you can never be too safe. Driver facing cameras gives you the opportunity to identify any unwanted behavior, such as distracted driving, while drivers are on the road. This allows you to correct and coach your team, promptly leading to improved performance and increased execution of safe practices. 

Get the full picture

If a picture is worth a thousand words, how much is a video worth? Yes, while fleet managers are finding that the data streaming off the trucks is providing them with substantial detail as to what is happening in the cab, it lacks a certain authenticity that video proof can provide. When it comes to incidents, collisions, or conflicts, having a reliable stream of events could supply you with more information to consider that may not have been tracked by data points. Video evidence to reference leaves minimal room for misinterpretation by providing indisputable evidence. Driver-facing cameras will act as a significant resource by providing a detailed account of the minutes leading up to and following the incident and provides an additional layer of security should the need arise. 

Real time machine vision algorithms 

As time goes on, more and more algorithms are being developed to advance camera operations. Features that detect and alert drivers about suspected drowsiness or distraction are now being implemented into cameras to assist in correcting hazardous driving behavior and coaches drivers in real-time. 

Recognize and reinforce

Use it to identify and appreciate your top drivers. Through the use of positive reinforcement, the adoption of camera technology may be increasingly welcomed by your team. Whether it’s simply a recognition email or even some company swag, 

Whether you love it or hate it, the implementation of driver-facing cameras is changing the way fleets operate. If you’re thinking that this technology could be the newest addition to your team, opening a transparent line of communication with your drivers is the place to start. Being clear about what these cameras will capture and how they will help not only the fleet, but the driver too, may help to put your driver’s worries at ease. 

You May Also Like

The pros and cons of wide base tires

For the right fleet, wide base tires may be what you’re looking for. But this only applies to a specific slice of the market.

For the right fleet, wide base tires may be what you’re looking for. But this only applies to a specific slice of the market, so you’ll want to make sure you have things right.

Adoption of wide base tires has continued to increase in the years since their entrance into the market in 2000. Still, they make up a relative minority of the market, and many fleet managers may still have questions about whether wide base tires are right for their fleet. So let’s get into the details.

How to prevent parasitic loads

It’s a delicate balance for fleet managers between providing driver comfort, but having the trucks start in the morning.

Communication is key in truck service

The goal when a truck needs a repair is the same for all parties involved: a quick, efficient repair done right.

truckservcommunication-1400
Like a ticking clock: How data can help get truck warranty claims filled out on time

In order to have a warranty claim successfully processed, there has to be a paper trail, and it has to be ironclad.

truckwarranties-1400
FE’s top ten truck coolant tips

Ten tips about truck coolant to share with you, the viewers of On the Road, today.

Other Posts

Direct labor vs. indirect labor in fleet shops

Keeping tabs on labor expenditures is important, but make sure you’re taking everything into account before assigning blame.

service-technician-generic-maintenance-downtime-repairs
Clarience showcases Air Vue wireless camera system

With up to 4 connected cameras, the company says this is the next step towards its integrated safety ecosystem.

Grote demonstrates 4SEE Smart Trailer System at TMC 2024

Demonstrated in a ride-along event at TMC, Grote teamed up with Stoneridge to add a new backup camera to its 4SEE system.

Grote-Stoneridge-TMC-ride-and-drive-external
Phillips touts T/T Pair tractor, trailer ‘smart seven-way socket’ at TMC

The T/T Pair by Phillips aims to enhance tractor-trailer connectivity, security, and maintenance practices.

Rob-Phillips-Smiling-TMC-1400