The value of video depends on the cost of the collision, the fatality or the claim. In many instances, the return on investment of a video-based safety system happens quickly. With the cost of repairs and claims skyrocketing, a video safety system often pays for itself after the first incident.

The driver was hit by a competitor truck. Witnesses claimed that our driver drove into the other truck, then backed-up in an attempt to leave the site. This exoneration was captured less than a week after their SmartDrive® SmartRecorders were installed.

A vehicle comes head on and side swipes our vehicle slight enough that there was no video triggered – the vehicle is a fully loaded solid waste truck. The other vehicle drove away. Police were called and, between the extended-recording video and eyewitnesses, the driver of the other vehicle was found a few miles down the road very shortly after this incident (less than 2 hours).

In this instance, video clearly shows that the pedestrian did not pay attention to the lights in the intersection. Because of the driver’s professional driving skills and paying careful attention as he entered the intersection, he was able to avoid a potential fatality. 

Some fleets considering video worry about their drivers’ reactions. In most instances, drivers understand the importance of video to protect themselves. “I am now confident that, should an incident occur while I’m on the road, and it’s not my fault, I will have the proof I need to be exonerated. That’s peace of mind.” Or, as another driver states, “We’re a target. The SmartDrive program is for our own safety and the safety of others.”

About SmartDrive Systems

SmartDrive Systems, the recipient of Frost & Sullivan’s Customer Value Leadership Award for Video Safety Solutions, gives fleets and drivers unprecedented driving performance insight and analysis, helping save fuel, expenses and lives. Its video analysis, predictive analytics and personalized performance program help fleets improve driving skills, lower operating costs and deliver significant ROI. With an easy-to-use managed service, fleets and drivers can access and self-manage driving performance anytime, anywhere. The company, which is ranked as one of the fastest growing companies by Deloitte’s Technology Fast 500™, has compiled the world’s largest storehouse of more than 195 million analyzed risky-driving events. SmartDrive Systems is based in San Diego, Calif., and employs over 650 people worldwide.

For more information on SmartDrive Systems, please visit www.smartdrive.net.