Telematics plays a huge role in running a fleet of vehicles. With the ability to monitor driver behaviour, reduce vehicle downtime and help improve customer service there’s no reason not to invest in telematics - whether you run small vans or HGVs, all fleets can benefit from fleet tracking services.
How it works
Telematics is data-driven. The system alone can’t improve your fleet performance and operation but can influence what you do with the provided data. Telematics can:
- Optimise routes
- Provide real-time tracking
- Reduce fuel consumption
- Monitor driver behaviour
- Improved safety
- Increase productivity
- Help track miles.
Once you receive the data from your telematics you can then use it to make effective changes to your fleet and business. We’re going to delve deeper into how safety is improved and how accidents are reduced thanks to this system.
Reduced accidents
The most common cause of road accidents in the UK is due to driver error. If a driver knows that they are being monitored (telematics helps you to see if they’re speeding and how harshly they are braking and accelerating) they are more inclined to drive safely.
Drivers know that if they are found to be driving dangerously they could lose their job and will have to sit extra driver training.
Holds people accountable
Of course, if your vehicle is involved in an accident it’s not always going to be your driver’s fault. Telematics can, however, help establish who is at fault and prevents false insurance claims - protecting your fleet even more.
Wondering how it works? With live tracking, for example, you will be able to see when your vehicle is stationary at some traffic lights, so if it’s involved in a collision you will be able to see that the vehicle didn’t cause it as it wasn’t moving. Of course, accidents aren’t always black and white, but telematics can help to paint a clearer picture.
Get the best team
Professional drivers, especially those who have been in the industry for years, can become complacent when they are behind the wheel. They know the roads and certain areas and as they’ve been driving for a while, they could probably do some routes with their eyes closed.
With that being said, complacency is not what any operator wants from their team. If a vehicle is involved in an accident and it’s covered in your brand’s livery it could ruin your business’ reputation. With telematics, you will be able to see the driver’s behaviour before an accident occurs.
If you see one driver regularly braking or accelerating harshly you should address the issue as soon as possible. If they deny it, you will have the data to prove it. With this information, you can carry out targeted training for drivers who need it - or if this is their final warning, you can ask them to leave the business.
Ultimately, the data available to you through your telematics system can help you improve the overall safety of your operation by ensuring you have the safest drivers on the road and that they’re protected too.
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