What Is Video Telematics?

Running a service business requires juggling to keep your crew on the road, jobs on schedule, and costs under control. Video telematics can help you do just that. These systems give you a real-time look at what’s happening with your trucks and crews, helping you cut down on wasted time, prevent costly breakdowns, and even lower your insurance costs.

With the right setup, you’ll be able to see if drivers are being safe (or where they may need coaching), if vehicles need maintenance, and if jobs are running smoothly and efficiently. It’s all about making better decisions faster—so you can focus on growing your business instead of putting out fires.

Learn how video telematics works, why it’s worth the investment, and how new technology is making it even easier for small and mid-sized service businesses to get ahead.

What is video telematics

Video telematics combines sensors, dashcams, and software to monitor fleet driver behavior, so you can see what's happening on the road. With real-time visibility into driver. behavior, you can identify risky driving behaviors, where your trucks are on the road, and anything else that may need your attention that wasn't on your radar. This helps you find opportunities to give your teams tips for improvement for safety and route efficiency. Video telematics data also helps you optimize operations through more efficient routes, effective maintenance scheduling, and saving fuel.

How do video telematics systems work?

Video telematics systems rely on sensors, software, and dashcams to help fleet managers know what's happening on the road. The dashcams capture clear, high-definition footage of drivers and the road so you can identify any risky behaviors and understand exactly how your vehicles are moving day-to-day. 

Sensors, such as engine interfaces, global positioning system (GPS) receivers, and accelerometers, let you see what's happening on the road, inside and outside the cab. For instance, these sensors can tell when a driver is not wearing a seatbelt, braking aggressively, or tailgating other drivers. You can also get details regarding location, vehicle diagnostics, speed, and more combine to create a complete picture. 

Here's a comprehensive look at how these systems operate:

• Capturing information from multiple angles: The process begins with data collection. Vehicle dashcams capture video footage of the road and the driver. Sensors in the vehicle also gather information regarding vehicle metrics and drive behavior, including speed, location, braking habits, and quick acceleration. Additional sensors can provide information regarding vehicle needs and performance. 
• Integrating telematics for the big picture: After collecting the information, the system integrates footage with telematics data. The system relies on visual information and vehicle diagnostics before transmitting the information to a central analysis platform. Fleet managers can use this information to gain accurate insights into driving conditions and operational efficiency. 
• Delivering real-time feedback: These systems can alert drivers in real time of risky behavior. For example, drivers may receive alerts regarding their seatbelts or distracted driving. Using advanced tools, you can also equip your system to alert drivers of incidents on the road, such as accidents or slow traffic, allowing the drivers to make informed decisions and save time. 
• Storing and analyzing data: Each bit of information is stored in the cloud, allowing fleet managers to access the video footage and diagnostic information at any time. Fleet managers can use this information to understand a specific driver's behavior, take a closer look at accidents, and gain overall insights into operational performance. This can guide short and long-term decisions to drive business success and improve driver safety.

Who uses video telematics software?

Video telematics is helpful for any size fleet, but small to mid-sized businesses it can a huge asset. With the right insights, you can cut down on wasted time, save money on fuel and repairs, and run a tighter operation. For smaller businesses on tight margins, video telematics gives you the tools to make smart decisions that keep your business running strong.

Industries like construction, transportation, delivery, restoration, electrical work, landscaping, plumbing, HVAC, pest control, and food service all rely on fleets to get the job done. If your business depends on trucks and crews in the field, video telematics can help you stay ahead of the competition and protect what you’ve built.

How do businesses use a video telematics solution?

Businesses of all sizes can use video telematics to accomplish several objectives and protect their operations. Here are the top ways to use this technology:

• Driver monitoring and behavior analysis: Real-time monitoring allows fleet managers to identify risky driver behavior that could result in accidents and create comprehensive driver safety training programs. Fleet managers can use real-time analytics to improve driving operations and improve skills specific to each driver with a holistic approach. 
• Incident reconstruction and liability protection: Using dashcams is an exceptional way to reduce business risk. Unfortunately, accidents happen and are often challenging or impossible to anticipate. In 2020, collision with a vehicle in transport accounted for 81% of injury crashes, 74% of property damage-only crashes, and 72% of fatal large truck crashes. In 2021, This same cause accounted for 84% of injury crashes, 75% of property damage crashes, and 74% of fatal large truck crashes. Dashcams can provide insight regarding roadway accidents, including whether the incident is the fault of your driver or another cause, ensuring you do not end up paying for damages or injuries that your business was not responsible for. 
• Equipment and cargo safety monitoring: Fleet managers can rely on equipment diagnostics to inform maintenance and repair decisions. For example, sensors monitoring engine function and vehicle performance can alert managers to potential problems, allowing them to address the concern timely and prevent unnecessary downtime or excessive damages. Additionally, managers can use these tools to ensure the safety and proper handling of products and cargo. Video footage can capture cargo conditions during transit, enlighten loading and unloading procedures to increase efficiency, document the delivery or pickup of goods, and ensure the proper care of fragile items. 
• Regulatory compliance adherence: Video telematics systems can also help businesses meet compliance regulations and adhere to industry standards. For example, fleet managers can use this technology to automatically log a driver's hour of service, effectively preventing fatigue-related accidents. This technology can also assist in dispute resolution, providing real-time and accurate information in case another driver or business submits a false claim or dispute. 
• Theft and damage deterrence: Another way to use this real-time information is to deter theft and damage or aid in vehicle or cargo recovery. While these systems should not be your main line of defense against malicious third parties, they can aid in identifying perpetrators, allow managers to locate stolen vehicles, and ensure driver integrity if products ever go missing or face damage.

What are the benefits of using a video telematics platform?

Video telematics can make a significant difference for business fleets and drivers. Check out some of the benefits of leveraging these systems: 

• Improved safety and reduced accidents: By gaining insights into driver behavior and vehicle diagnostics, fleet managers can improve safety and reduce accidents. Managers can create comprehensive training programs and give driver-specific recommendations to address concerns and ensure safe driving practices. Additionally, drivers can receive real-time alerts and notifications to remind them of proper safety measures and indicate potential road hazards to reduce accidents and injuries. 
• Enhanced driver accountability: Another advantage of implementing these systems is the ability to provide objective evidence of driving behavior to enhance driver accountability. Video telematics can provide irrefutable evidence of actions like distracted driving, lane departure, harsh braking, quick acceleration, and speeding. Fleet managers can use this information to make personalized driving recommendations and hold drivers accountable for operational outcomes. In the event of an accident, high-quality video footage can depict whether a driver is at fault, reducing risk for your business.
• Insurance cost savings: Businesses can further benefit from video telematics by promoting insurance cost savings. These systems aid in determining accident liability, provide driver alerts, and can help reduce losses from theft. This information can help insurers determine premiums and assist in reducing fraudulent claims. Furthermore, real-time tracking can aid in locating stolen vehicles, further reducing losses and allowing for faster recovery. Some insurance companies are also rolling out incentives and discounts for environmental initiatives. This means you can use your real-time data to optimize routes and save fuel to reduce your environmental impact, which may lead to greater financial returns. 
• Reduced maintenance: Vehicle diagnostics ensure each vehicle receives necessary and timely repairs or maintenance. Fleet managers can use this information to create comprehensive maintenance schedules and avoid unnecessary downtime. Additionally, providing proper maintenance is the best way to prevent minor issues from causing severe problems that extend to other vehicle components. By reducing this issue, businesses can save money from reduced maintenance and repair costs, support driver safety, and enhance operational efficiency by eliminating unnecessary downtime. 
• Efficiency gains in fleet operations: There are many ways to boost operational efficiency by leveraging video telematics. Real-time insights from vehicles empower fleet managers to optimize routes, schedule maintenance during off-peak times, create fuel-saving initiatives, improve vehicle utilization, and take other actions to ensure productivity. Drivers can stay ahead with real-time alerts to help spot road hazards, recognize traffic patterns, and reroute when necessary. 
• Streamlined incident management: Accidents and road incidents are inevitable, but there are several ways businesses can manage them to allow their business to bounce back faster and avoid unnecessary penalties, fines, or other adverse consequences. Leveraging high-definition video footage is one of the best ways to quickly put a matter to rest. Irrefutable evidence from these systems can quicken dispute resolutions and streamline any processes related to insurance claims. 
• Encouraged positive driver behavior: Administering holistic recommendations and using driver-specific information can ensure safety and encourage positive behaviors. Real-time video capabilities may dissuade drivers from participating in risky behaviors, and you can further encourage positive actions by implementing reward systems. For instance, you could create a motivating challenge or gamification incentive for drivers in which they can obtain financial rewards and recognition for practicing fleet safety. 

What can video telematic software do?

At the heart of every video telematic system is the software that empowers insights and connectivity. Quality video telematics companies will leverage software with features such as:

• Dashboards for fleet monitoring: A user-friendly dashboard will be your home base for accessing system information, real-time updates, and analytical insights. This dashboard will also offer fleet management features such as maintenance alerts and route optimization. You can also use this platform to connect with employees and gather feedback to create a collaborative culture of improvement. For additional efficiency, you can access your dashboard from a mobile device, ensuring all-time access anywhere you need it.
• Data analytics and reporting tools: The prime reason to implement a video telematic system is to access vital data analytics and reporting tools to drive positive change at your business. Your software will provide all the tools you need to access historical information, monitor real-time insights, and reflect on trends to drive your decision-making processes. 
• Real-time alerts and notifications: Video telematic software ensures you receive critical information in a timely manner. This software will send you alerts or notifications regarding vehicle needs and driver behaviors and can provide real-time road and safety alerts to drivers. 
• Integration with GPS tracking and other telematics systems: Your software will determine compatibility with your existing systems. A flexible system will allow you to integrate with GPS tracking units and other telematic systems or warehouse management tools. The more tools you have and the more data you can access, the more informed you will be. 

How do you set up a video telematics camera and system?

To get the full benefits of video telematics, you need to be sure the system is set up correctly. Here's what you need to know about the required hardware, installation steps, and system integration:

• Hardware requirements: Video telematics systems typically utilize several cameras, a GPS tracking unit, and several sensors. Depending on your system provider and fleet needs, your system may have front-facing, rear-facing, and driver-facing cameras, a GPS unit, an engine interface, a processing unit for data transmission, an accelerometer, and a SIM card for communication and data storage. You may also need a wireless module for data transmission or a digital video recorder to hold large video footage files or quantities.
• System integrations: Quality video telematics integrate with existing systems. You can connect video telematics with your fleet management system, vehicle diagnostics, and GPS systems. Reliable providers may also have valuable partnerships to provide additional connectivity. For example, Linxup partners with several leading brands, including Avetta, Bryx, Clarus Communications, and more, for seamless integrations, boosted efficiency, and enhanced connectivity to all your relevant data and industry operations. 
• Driver and manager training: It's important that your team has the proper training to ensure every employee understands how the system works, best practices for leveraging insights, and how to improve overall productivity. Training programs should discuss the purpose of using the systems, what drivers can expect, and how fleet managers can access and leverage data. It's also important to implement feedback opportunities to ensure your chosen system works well for your team and maximizes impact. 

Linxup makes it easy to implement tracking technologies. Our simple, four-step process ensures you can gain information quickly and seamlessly. Here's how it works: 

1. Installation: Quick installation connects a GPS device to your vehicle and calculates its exact location.
2. Transmission: The device transmits movement, coordinates, speed, and other relevant information to a cell tower or stores the information and sends it when a cell tower is in range. 
3. Connection: All relevant information moves to Linxup servers.
4. Reporting: You can access any alerts, historical information, reports, and other relevant data with our easy-to-use portal at any time. 

Important Information to Note

If you're still considering whether you should invest in a video telematic solution, it may be helpful to note the current trends and success stories that highlight the power of these systems. Additionally, you should note privacy and compliance concerns to ensure you implement your system with ease and peace of mind.

Trends in Video Telematics Technology

Existing video telematic solutions deliver immense benefits for businesses, but technology advancements make these systems even more powerful. The latest innovations in video telematics technology involve integrating artificial intelligence (AI). These new AI tools empower fleet managers to create holistic pictures of drive behaviors and safety to inform decision-making. Key features include:

• Capturing event data: New AI features empower your system to capture additional event data, such as drowsy driving or positive driver actions. This information can provide contextual evidence for positive or negative outcomes and further inform decisions. 
• Providing contextual data: Not only can smart dashcams depict more information about driver behaviors, but AI capabilities can explain why an action or event occurred. For instance, these technologies could determine whether a driver quickly decelerated because a driver cut them off or due to a lack of space when changing lanes. 
• Automated coaching: AI-powered smart dashcams take personalized recommendations to a new level. These technologies can monitor driver behaviors and administer automated, personalized coaching to enhance safety and promote positive behaviors. 
• Verbal notifications: While video telematics systems can deliver alerts and notifications, AI technologies now offer verbal notifications so they don't need to take their eyes off the road. This helps keep them safe and focused. 

Use Cases and Success Stories

Linxup has been helping businesses just like yours since 2004 discover fleet tracking solutions. With more than two decades of experience, we've gained essential knowledge and discovered impressive solutions to drive business growth and boost efficiency. Take a look at our success stories: 

• Steve Hilker Trucking, Inc. leveraged our 360 Visibility Solution to enable real-time monitoring and enhance safety. Our solution helped Steve Hilker Trucking, Inc. to minimize empty miles, optimize routes, and build a safety culture.
• Goudy Pools implemented a Linxup solution to drive business growth. Goudy Pools experienced instant visibility through our software, extended vehicle life with maintenance tracking, and gained overall peace of mind.
• CSI-Absolute Clean Inc. improved communication and cut costs with our help. Easy information access empowered this team to overcome tight budget restrictions, and irrefutable evidence ensured fast dispute settlement to save company resources.
• Harris Integrated Solutions implemented our solutions to manage three service trucks, enhance productivity, and give back benefits to employees. This team was able to provide more accurate billing for customers, improve employee response time, and ensure each vehicle receives timely maintenance to boost operations and brand reputation. 

Privacy and Compliance Concerns

Despite the many benefits of leveraging a video telematics system, there are some concerns regarding privacy and compliance. Employee concerns surge around driver privacy and ethical considerations. Specific compliance regulations and privacy standards can vary depending on your industry, business, and area of operation. However, it is critical to understand your responsibilities and local, federal, and state regulations regarding video recording. 

Generally, you can ensure compliance and eliminate privacy concerns by taking several actions, including:

• Maintain transparency: First and foremost, it is essential to be transparent with your team. Always explain how and why you use video footage and drive information. Explain what elements your cameras will record and address any personal concerns about driver privacy on the job. 
• Explain your purpose: Communication can go a long way in easing employee concerns. Inform your team of the reason for implementing a video solution and clearly define your business goals. Make sure your team knows your goal is to boost efficiency and ensure safety rather than micromanage each team member's movement. 
• Ensure data security: You must have cybersecurity measures in place to protect all the data you collect and store. Implement risk assessments, encrypt sensitive information, and maintain practices to prevent breaches that could threaten driver confidentiality. 
• Understand regulations: Research and understand all relevant compliance information and industry standards. Implement compliance programs to evaluate your ability to maintain compliance and implement best practices to ensure ongoing adherence.

Experience the benefits of telematics with Linxup

At Linxup, our goal is to craft long-lasting solutions that address your business needs and help you drive success. The power of telematics systems delivers immense impacts to businesses of all sizes, and we make it easy to install and operate dashcams and GPS trackers in under 15 minutes. When you need a tracking solution to monitor progress, track real-time insights, and refine your processes for operational efficiency, you can trust us to get the job done. Contact our team to learn more about our solutions.