How Video Telematics Impacts Driver Performance and Behavior

Video telematics, a software that integrates video data, vehicle data, and GPS data collected by commercial vehicles to allow for a more comprehensive analysis based on real-time tracking. It supports GPS tracking, machine learning, and video analysis to measure a driver's performance and behavior on the road. 

In this article, we will understand the goal of Video telematics software which is to ensure safer driving practices and practically zero road accidents. 

Video Telematics Solutions Enhancing Driver Performance and Behavior

A Driver Monitoring System (DMS) is an important part of video telematics systems. It includes cameras equipped with features that are capable of interpreting the driver's behaviors in real time, which can help detect potentially dangerous actions or even physiological conditions that might lead to accidents. Here are some ways in which video telematics can detect various driver behaviors:

 

1. Not using the steering wheel: Video telematics systems use cameras to monitor the driver's hands in real time. If they detect that the driver isn't holding the steering wheel for a certain duration, an alert can be triggered. If a driver releases the steering wheel for a while; the system identifies this and sends an alert to the driver or the fleet manager.

 

2. Signs of fatigue: Advanced software such as TrackoBit’s video telematics software can track eye movement, head position, and even yawns via an inward-facing camera. If there are any changes in these factors indicate fatigue, allowing the system to warn the driver to take a break. In case a driver's eyes start closing more frequently, the system interprets this as a sign of tiredness and suggests the driver take a break.

 

3. Absence from the driver seat: Using in-cabin cameras and seat sensors in conjunction with video cameras, video telematics can detect if the driver seat is unoccupied. This can be particularly useful in situations where a vehicle is idling with the motor running. If a driver leaves the vehicle idling while they are out of the vehicle, the sensors detect absence and alert the fleet management.

 

4. Distracting phone usage while driving: Cameras can scan for changes in hand and face positioning that suggest the driver is using a mobile phone. Additionally, accelerometers can sense the slight changes in vehicle movement caused by distracted driving. If the driver lifts their hand to their ear, the camera can detect this action, and if this is paired with unusual vehicle movements, it's likely the driver is using their phone and the system can alert them.

 

5. Attempts to cover the dashboard camera: A smart video telematics system can monitor the camera feed in real time and identify when the camera's view is blocked, tampered with, or covered. If an object suddenly blocks the camera's view, an alarm is triggered immediately, alerting the fleet manager, who can then discuss the issue with the driver.

Why Choose Video Telematics Solutions 

Integrating video telematics into your fleet can help you in various ways which are: 

1. Cost Reduction

 

• Fuel Efficiency: Video telematics can monitor driving patterns such as speeding, harsh braking, etc., leading to reducing unnecessary fuel consumption. For example, a delivery company can use this data to train the drivers to drive more efficiently, saving on fuel costs.

 

• Reducing Accidents: With video footage of driver behavior, risky behaviors like distracted driving can be identified and corrected. This can reduce the number of accidents, saving costs related to repairs or replacements. For instance, a courier service can prevent costly accidents by coaching drivers who frequently engage in distracted driving.

 

• Lower Insurance Premiums: By providing safe driving practices and relatively low accident claims through video telematics data, companies can negotiate lower insurance premiums. 

2. Increased Customer Satisfaction

•  On-time Deliveries: Video telematics can provide real-time location tracking which helps in predicting accurate delivery times. For example, an e-commerce company can use this data to keep customers informed about the exact delivery time, increasing customer satisfaction.
• Improve Service Quality: By monitoring driver behavior, companies can ensure professional conduct, proper handling of goods, and safe and efficient driving habits. For example, a food delivery company can make sure that the deliveries are handled properly without much delay or any damage.

3. Enhancing Company Reputation

• Safety Record: A fleet with a good safety record backed up by video telematics data can enhance the company's reputation among customers and the industry.
• Corporate Responsibility: By reducing fuel consumption and promoting safe driving, a company shows it cares about the community and environment. For example, a taxi company can promote its efforts to reduce emissions and road accidents, enhancing its reputation as a socially responsible company.

Last Remarks!

To sum it up, video telematics enhances driver performance by providing feedback on their driving habits, offering visual proof in case of incidents, and promoting safer driving for fleet management.

If you are interested in understanding how video telematics could boost your company's operations? At the same time, how can it make your fleet operations safer and more efficient? Then, you should connect with TrackoBit.

Read More : GPS Fleet Tracking Solutions