Developing vehicle technology and its impact on safety

Video technology can support a fleet safety programme in a variety of ways, from identifying fatigued or distracted drivers and reducing the risk of incidents, through to providing evidence for investigations and insurance claims in the event of a crash.

This technology is continually evolving and can assist fleet managers to mitigate road risk.

Brake NZ director, Caroline Perry says, “Driving for work is a significant health and safety risk to organisations, so it’s essential that you have relevant policies and procedures in place to address risk.

“Technology, including video technology, is evolving rapidly, and there are an increasing number of systems available that aim to improve vehicle and driver safety.

“Knowing what the latest developments are and what to consider when implementing technology can help fleets to ensure they get the most from these systems, helping them to reduce their road risk.”

MiX Telematics Middle East and Australasia managing director, Brodie Von Berg says, “With the increased adoption of AI solutions, fleet operators are demanding evolving technology to provide real-time visibility and control over their fleets and drivers.

“Monitoring driver behaviour with video telematics increases safety, which leads to fewer incidents and fewer claims.”

Staying safe on our roads

We all know that stress can affect our decision-making process. Heightened emotions such as stress, anger or upset are a form of cognitive distraction which can significantly impede drivers’ ability to spot and respond to hazards.

Any number of stressors can affect our driving on a normal day, but during this unprecedented time of a pandemic, in addition to navigating our way through school holiday traffic, our stress levels can go through the roof.

Switching off the mind-clutter can be particularly difficult when we’re behind the wheel making that rare and quick trip for essential supplies, getting to and from work, or helping someone more vulnerable. In these moments, we may find more anxiety and stress creeping into our driving.

You also have to be careful when experiencing a lot less traffic than you’re used to. Traffic often provides drivers with cues to moderate speed and take notice of traffic signals. Without the traffic in place, we may find ourselves switching to auto pilot and letting the clutter in our minds take over. Worse still, some drivers see the open road as an invitation to speed.

Tips for staying safe on our roads: Distance between your car and the car in front. Always keep a minimum three seconds gap between you and the car in front. When it’s raining and/or foggy double the distance to six seconds no matter what speed you’re doing.

Indicate early

Always indicate when changing lanes, 30-metres wherever practical, to advise other motorists of what you are doing.

Eyes ahead

Drive with your line of sight parallel to the road not looking down onto it. By doing this you see further into the distance so you can be better prepared if there is a problem ahead. It may even mean you can avoid a crash.

Overtaking

Ensure you have enough room to go past the vehicle you are overtaking and not cut them off. Pick you time carefully as overtaking can be quite dangerous and making the wrong decision may result in a serious crash.

Driving at night

Driving at night requires more skill and concentration than at daytime due to your restricted vision. Oncoming headlights can obscure your vision and pedestrians can be near impossible to see. Leave a bigger gap between you and the car in front to allow for your reduced vision and reaction time.

Road rage

Stay relaxed and try not to let other people’s driving skills or decisions worry you. If another driver makes a mistake don’t get angry - just concentrate on your own driving skills, behaviour and safety. Remember that travelling during holiday periods can be more-risky because of increased traffic volumes, congestion, tiredness, there are higher numbers of people driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and people may be driving in unfamiliar environments. Being courteous and flexible, remembering to share the road with others, allowing increased time for the journey, and scheduling frequent breaks can help drivers to stay safe during these highpressure periods. CT