Close to half of all fleets are either piloting AI solutions or exploring how it might help boost safety within their companies, according to a survey.
It found just over a quarter (26%) were already testing artificial intelligence systems as a means to increase safety and a further 18% were investigating options.
The distracted driving survey from Teletrac Navman, along with tech firm Vontier, also found that 83% of respondents said that AI was the future of safety.
“The use of AI by fleets is expanding from primarily fleet planning to fleet operations,” said Alain Samaha, chief executive at Teletrac Navman.
“There are clear safety advantages in harnessing AI with vehicle and dashcam data, including preventing accidents by reducing distracted driving and our customers are turning to Teletrac Navman and TN360 as a partner in achieving these results.”
Teletrac found that 49% of respondents to an earlier survey said distracted driving had a financial cost on their business.
As such, 32% of respondents said AI would be used to monitor driver behaviour in real time and to reduce distracted driving incidents (16%); in 17% of cases it would be used to predict and prevent potential accidents; 14% to improve vehicle maintenance and enhancing training through data insights in 13% of cases.
But the technology is not without its concerns. Despite 66% of teams being aware of the safety benefits of AI, 23% of respondents said they were worried about data privacy and 14% fear resistance from drivers or staff.
“Camera and telematic data, in combination with AI, have the potential to be a very powerful tool for fleets who need to cut their exposure to risk,” added Samaha.
“However, people are integral to making that happen, especially in situations where there may be concerns from drivers and unions. Effective communication is key.”
Chris Tindall started writing for the haulage and logistics industry in 2002 and quickly realised there was enough going on to keep him busy for a very long time.View full Profile
