Sam Footer, Partnership Director, SureCam

How is video telematics adapting to meet the needs of essential fleets?

With continued advances in cloud-based connectivity there is now a huge opportunity to bring together complementary systems to improve road safety, better protect drivers and enhance fleet management. We are seeing video telematics integrated with other apps, systems and tools, which is enabling fleet operators to gain greater levels of visibility, control and insight through added connectivity and seamless sharing of data.

What complementary technologies can your video telematics integrate with?

We have created an ecosystem of technology systems that works seamlessly together to deliver added value above and beyond the benefits of video telematics. This growing range of solutions already includes vehicle tracking, mileage capture and compliance, claims and risk management, and driver training.

One such development has been the combination of lone worker protection with video telematics, providing drivers with a quick and easy way to request assistance. This is helping to mitigate risk both in and outside the vehicle, offering high levels of safety and peace of mind to the people who drive for a living, and their employers. In fact, it is taking lone worker safety to the next level, adding an extra layer of protection to what is currently available using a video telematics solution.

Who is already using this integrated lone worker solution?

Ringway Jacobs, a leading highway services provider, has achieved improved levels of safety and fleet risk reduction, as well as increasing the support provided to its drivers, following the roll-out of our video-enabled driver protection solution. The company needed a personal safety solution for its highway inspection team, responsible for walked, visual inspections of footways and carriageways. They are all too often seen as the ‘face’ of the highway authority and in danger of violent and abusive behaviour from road users, while also being at risk from slips, trips and falls, as well as traffic collisions both inside moving vehicles and at the roadside.

Drivers simply scan a QR code using a mobile app to register their unique user ID, which confirms who is driving the vehicle. This automatically enables controllers in the ARC to access audio communication along with supporting video footage captured from cameras fitted on 163 Ringway Jacobs vans and specialist vehicles, as well as incident data, when an alarm is raised. The added audio and visual insight also ensures that the most appropriate action is taken quickly, efficiently and safely, with immediate access to emergency services if required.

What further developments do you have in the pipeline?

We are continually evolving our technology proposition to provide greater value to our essential fleet customers. Distraction has been shown to be major cause of collisions, and yet, research found that almost three quarters of drivers admit to multi-tasking while driving. In the coming months, we are launching a number of AI solutions and integrated tools to detect and discourage driver distraction, as well as alert drivers to nearby vulnerable road users.

An AI camera will be introduced that detects road and driver risk, including distractions and drowsiness, as well as a new integration with smart device security technology that will block the use of social media and messaging apps while driving. Meanwhile, we are planning an AI pedestrian and cyclist detection system that will be compliant with the Direct Vision Standard in London and support Vision Zero commitments.

What advice would you give to a fleet looking to install video telematics?

Ensure you have the infrastructure and resources in place to manage correctly and take full advantage of the opportunities that exist. It is about embedding the technology into the organisation, and wherever possible integrating with other internal and external systems, to ensure that the right people have access. Video telematics can positively impact multiple areas of the business – including fleet, HR, finance and any third-party insurance partner – so make sure they are all involved from the start and receive the appropriate training and guidance.

Select a technology partner that can support you through the process and deliver ongoing assistance. It is not your role to be a video telematics specialist, that is their job. You need to be able to tap into their expertise and have confidence in their ability to implement a solution that meets your precise needs.

Is driver pushback an issue and how do you gain their buy-in?

Driver concerns can be a challenge, especially if handled badly. Not everyone is supportive of change or greater use of technology, but the biggest pushback from drivers is normally around privacy issues and a belief that they are being watched all the time. Clear and transparent communication that engages with drivers from an early stage is key to overcoming any apprehension and will help you get the most out of a video telematics solution. You need to explain the reasons behind it being adopted and why it is a benefit to them.

It is also important to convince drivers that the purpose of the technology is non-punitive and primarily aimed making them safer. Any measures should always be more carrot than stick, so recognising and incentivising drivers is an effective way of achieving measurable results. Consider combining video telematics with automated training and engagement, based on individual performance, along with league table to identify and reward those that have improved the most.

Can you tell us a bit about SureCam?

SureCam is a global leader in video safety for fleets. We believe every fleet, from 5 vehicles to 5,000 should have real-time visibility into what’s happening on the road. Our network-connected cameras and cloud-based software protect fleets from false driving allegations and are the first line of defence against rising claims costs. We work with clients to customise each fleet’s configurations, providing visibility into the incidents and driving behaviour you care about while filtering out the noise.  SureCam is trusted by some of the most recognised fleets in road transport, logistics, utilities, construction, taxi, field services and home delivery.

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for year 2023