It’s understandable that some drivers are hesitant about in-cab cameras, but persistent misconceptions have overshadowed the huge benefits of this technology. Dash cams shouldn’t be avoided or feared because they ultimately are designed to help keep drivers safe, and also offer a powerful platform to provide “boots on the ground” input to fleet management.
Here are six ways dash cams can help drivers in their day to day, as well as their careers:
Fast Exonerations
It’s no secret that commercial drivers may be blamed for any incident in an effort to win a legal claim. As reported by Automotive Fleet, “The COVID pandemic has created a spike in fraudulent claims targeting vocational trucks by instigating staged accidents… [Staged crashes] have grown to be the No. 1 insurance fraud scheme.”
When you’ve had any type of collision or been accused of causing damage, in-cab cameras can provide video evidence that backs you up. When your company has instant access to footage from the field, false claims will be immediately thrown out —so you can get back to your job without having to argue your innocence, keeping your name and record clear.
“After a little more than a year of installing Lytx® cameras, our claims costs have dropped 92%,” notes Donahue Holloway, safety coordinator for the Durham Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
“Drivers can rest easy knowing that the actions of others who are liable will be captured on video,” said Gary Johnson, director, risk and compliance management at Lytx. “People in passenger vehicles frequently cut off commercial drivers. They change lanes without looking. They don’t see your truck because they’re texting while at the wheel. Professional drivers can be assured—and drive more confidently—knowing that the Lytx DriveCam® event recorders can help protect them in these situations.”
Easy Proof of Service
After long days of driving and logistics, you shouldn’t have to go back and prove the job has been done. Dash cams can do that for you. If a customer complains that a delivery was never made, if no one was around to receive a load, if a dock is full, or even if there was no access to a location, your in-cab camera will capture what’s happening with a date and time stamp. This makes it incredibly easy for you, your managers, and your fleet to document service, and share it with a customer when needed.
More Independence
In-cab cameras capture footage that helps drivers continuously learn—entirely on their own. For example, drivers can easily access their own video clips from a mobile device with the Lytx Driver App. You can review your performance, self-identify potentially risky habits, and make improvements of your own volition. The app offers both immediate and long-term learnings. Drivers can watch the video right after a trip is complete, or access performance trends over a 90-day period.
In short, you can check out the footage and learn independently, on an ongoing basis. In-cab cameras are a powerful self-coaching tool to help you make significant changes that will impact your career.
Safer Driving
A smart dash cam powered by artificial intelligence (AI) is the best tool to help drivers identify risks, which translates to a safer working environment. From distracted driving habits to unsafe roadway conditions, the in-cab cameras of today are advanced enough to flag drivers and managers when something risky is occurring, which can also mean physical protection like a medical event the driver might not have realized they experienced.
Video with machine vision and artificial intelligence (MV+AI) technology provides situational awareness for both the driver and the manager. With so much more information, you can make more knowledgeable decisions when faced with unpredictable factors like weather, pedestrians, risky intersections, low bridges, and more.
Better Communication and Feedback
Yes, dash cams can provide critical collision evidence and also help you improve your driving skills. But just as importantly, video acts as a communication tool for drivers and coaches. The footage gives context to your conversations about what actually happened and why you made decisions, keeping feedback flowing so it’s not just a top-down approach at the fleet.
Per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, companies with engaged employees experience 48% fewer safety collisions. The video from in-cab cameras is something drivers can use to provide specific examples and explanations, improving fleet communication and safety, as well as morale.
More Recognition
Instead of relying on second-hand reports, managers can see, for themselves, footage of drivers using defensive driving, safe habits, and professionalism in the field. Your exceptional driving skills can be recognized right away—not only is the praise nice to hear but the video clips can also be used to set safety standards for the entire fleet. Plus, the footage clearly highlights the drivers who are acting like leaders, and consequently could be nominated to receive perks, bonuses, promotions, and other incentives.
In a recent report, 92% of employees said that they’re more likely to repeat actions they receive recognition for; and organizations that rate their culture of recognition highly are also three times more likely to see increased employee retention.
“Tell them how much you appreciate what they do,” advises Kristin Danner, assistant corporate safety manager of the City of Kansas City, Missouri. “Show them you respect the work that they perform. Without those connections, prizes and awards are just stuff.” For more tips and tricks about recognition programs that work, view this free ebook.
Conclusion
If we can dispel the stigmas around in-cab cameras in the industry, drivers and fleets can take full advantage of all the benefits offered by the technology—which increase exponentially when combined with a telematics solution.
To learn more about how our fleet dash cams and telematics solutions can support your fleet and drivers, contact us here.