Telematics data provides accurate information on the way that a vehicle is driven. It’s been said that accidents are predominantly caused by driver error. However, sometimes a collision could be down to vehicle malfunction instead.
Telematics can help to provide diagnostic data back to the central system via the car’s onboard computer. Fleet Managers can use the data to detect early when a vehicle needs to be serviced and can ensure their fleet is healthy. Therefore, reducing the possibility of an accident caused by electrical or mechanical faults.
Providing new ways to train and manage employees
Collecting data is all well and good, but Managers need to be more informed using the data they collect regarding driver behavior. Some companies even introduce scorecards to help manage drivers who are displaying behaviors that could cause an accident.
This can also allow drivers, not just to be penalized for errors, but also be rewarded for safer driving. By managing behaviors properly, it could lead to fewer accidents on the road. Plus, provide a better working environment through a culture of caring about driver safety and welfare.
The impact doesn’t just take effect when they get back to the company but also on the roads too. Telematics uses the diagnostics in the vehicle to display warning lights if an employee is about to take on a high-risk maneuver. By notifying the driver, they can adopt a different strategy there and then rather than be informed at a later date.
Making things clearer for companies
With the use of telematic data, companies can have a clearer view of how to train and monitor performance. Data over time can be analyzed to highlight patterns of unsafe driver behavior.
For example, harsh braking could indicate a tired and overworked driver but could also mean someone is using a phone whilst driving or getting distracted. Patterns can then be addressed and used as examples in training for employees to create safer ways of driving.
Seat belt usage and speed limits are also recorded. As well as whether red lights are run. All of which can be used to monitor and manage behavior and then conduct appropriate training to prevent further accidents.
A company that can show good training schemes often hire employees of a higher caliber. It also increases the feeling of being valued by the company which can help retain workers and provide better solutions for road safety.
Enhance your business reputation
Sharing data with your customers about how you monitor safety can actually increase business and enhance reputation. It shows customers you’re committed to providing a quality and professional service and that you care about road safety.
The data can also be used to provide customers with updates on when to expect a driver to arrive. Adding to customer service and increasing the value of your offering. As a result, it could provide a competitive edge and be used to drive new business.
Deliver on time
Telematics data utilizes GPS systems to detect the location of a vehicle. This can be used also to help fleets monitor traffic and avoid congested routes. A large number of accidents often occur during busier periods so by recording traffic you can find less congested routes that pose less risk whilst also improving efficiency and timeliness.
The impact of reduced accidents
Telematics enhances the safety of your fleet drivers and helps to build a better workplace for customers, employees and their managers. With a reduction in accidents, fleet companies can also save huge amounts in the maintenance and repairs of their fleet.
What’s more, insurance companies can be provided with insight into accident rates and driver behavior which could lead to saving on insurance premiums for the company. Along with the reduction of any claims made.
It often costs a lot more to get a vehicle repaired when there are major damages. By using the information recorded on vehicle diagnostics, vehicles can catch issues before they become a huge problem. Therefore, saving substantial costs on vehicle maintenance and repairs.
You will have peace of mind that your fleet drivers are safer on the roads, but furthermore, you can reduce costs lost to production disruptions. If drivers are safer, have well-maintained vehicles and choose better routes productivity can increase and savings can be made for the company.
The future of telematics data for fleets
Telematics data has been used in the automotive industry for a while now. But it’s interesting to see where the technology might be headed.
Experts anticipate a wider increase in the use of this type of data amongst the fleet industry. In particular, a continued emphasis on safety. More informed solutions can be found to try and reduce accidents even further on the roads.
Real-time data recorded by the fleet industry can be used to increase safety on the roads and also to find more economical ways of working. This may include considering autonomous vehicles or vehicle sharing when drivers have similar routes.
Ample amounts of data could be made available to companies. But it’s important that it remains organized and doesn’t bombard companies with too much muddled information. By the time we reach 2020, it’s suggested that connected vehicles will be much more common place.
With more data available it could transform the way the industry works. The introduction of electric cars and telematics being used to track CO2 emissions on vehicles proves the future of the use of this data could really push the industry forward.
Further opportunities could appear to not only reduce accidents but provide better services and solutions for the fleet industry. With a continued focus on organizing and analyzing data, fleet decision makers could really drive strategies for enhanced efficiency and safer driving.
It seems telematics data could really be developed into a powerful tool that can help not just the fleet industry but the entire future of the automotive industry.