Video evidence has consistently been a crucial element in gathering and storing information, especially for businesses engaged in fleet management. More specifically, we are referring to the application of video telematics.

In recent years, numerous industries have experienced notable technological advancements. The transportation sector has particularly embraced video telematics as a remarkable innovation.

Here’s a comprehensive guide that you allow you to learn everything that you need to know about video telematics solutions.
What are Video Telematics Solutions?
Video telematics is the updated version of vehicle telematics that incorporates visual data on vehicle analytics and geospatial insights. While vehicle telematics solutions transmit textual alerts to notify managers of events, video telematics solutions retrieve video data.

Since the fusion of video telematics with fleet management software, the efficiency of this technology has improved dramatically. Apart from real-time location tracking, the software now collects comprehensive data and provides valuable insights on vehicles through its sensors.

The dashboard camera actively records the driver’s actions, while the video sensor captures both the exterior and interior surroundings. These environmental factors include the speed of nearby vehicles, the driving style of the driver, and the environment around the vehicle.
DMS - ADAS: The Core of Video Telematics Software
The Driver Management System (DMS) and Advanced Driver Assistant System (ADAS) are not only the foundation of Video Telematics but also the fundamental elements of video telematics. To elaborate further, DMS comprises dash cams that are directed towards the drivers, while ADAS consists of cameras that are focused on the road.

The Driver Monitoring System (DMS) monitors driver behavior, while the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) helps monitor road conditions.

In DMS, the dashcam captures the driver's actions, compares them with the recognized events, and generates appropriate alerts accordingly. Moreover, the system recognizes events rather than actions, and these events are categorized into different types such as smoking, yawning, drowsiness, and others.

In addition, fleet managers are also notified about other events, such as the blocking of the camera, the driver's absence from the driver's seat, and the usage of a mobile phone.

The ADAS feature not only enhances the overall functionality but also effectively detects the surrounding environment and promptly notifies the driver of any potential incidents. By incorporating the ADAS feature, insurance claim settlements, driver training, and the overall safety of the vehicle, driver, and cargo have greatly improved.

Fleet managers can be notified about events such as forward collisions, red light jumping, and reckless lane switching through ADAS.

How Does Video Telematics Work?
Now that you know the meaning and the core components of video telematics, here’s a breakdown of how video telematics typically work-
1) Hardware Installation
Video telematics systems usually consist of hardware components such as dashcams, GPS trackers, and sensors for monitoring parameters like speed, engine status, and braking.
2) Camera Placement
The camera is strategically installed inside and outside to capture various angles of the road, the in-cabin activities of the driver, and the vehicle itself. Some common placements include dashboards-mounted cameras, side-view cameras, rear-view cameras, and cameras facing the driver or the interior of the vehicle.
3) Recording and Storage
The cameras continuously record video footage in real-time. These images can be stored locally on an onboard storage device or wirelessly transferred to a central server for remote storage and analysis. Modern systems often use high-definition cameras capable of capturing clear video even in low-light conditions.
4) Data analysis and reporting
Video recordings and telematics data are analyzed using software algorithms. These algorithms can recognize various events and behaviors such as hard braking, acceleration, departure, collisions, and even driver distraction (e.g. texting while driving). ) Reporting from this study provides insight into potential driver performance, vehicle health, and safety hazards.
5) Alerts and notifications
Video telematics software can be configured to send real-time alerts and notifications when specific events or actions are detected. For example, fleet managers can receive instant alerts about patterns of aggressive driving or accidents, enabling immediate response.
6) Integration with Fleet Management Software
Video telematics systems can be integrated with fleet management software systems to provide a complete solution for fleet management. This integration enables fleet managers to access all relevant data and insights from a single dashboard, streamlining operations and decision-making processes.

Benefits of Video Telematics Solutions
Video telematics solutions offer a range of benefits, especially in the context of fleet management, safety, and operational efficiency. Here are some key advantages of implementing video telematics solutions:
(1) Driver Monitoring
Video telematics solutions can record and analyze the behavior of drivers. It also promotes safer driving habits and reduces risky behaviors like speeding, harsh braking, and aggressive driving.

The solution is not just confined to analyzing the driver's driving habits but also notifying events of collisions. In such events, video footage can provide crucial information for understanding the cause of the event. Advanced video telematics solutions also provide real-time alerts to prevent collisions.
(2) Real-time live streaming
Video telematics systems offer real-time streaming which allows fleet managers to monitor their fleet and the activities of the drivers in real-time. The solution helps address issues as they arise and improves the overall operational visibility.
(3) Driver training opportunities
Video footage can be used for driver training and coaching. This allows fleet managers to identify areas for improvement and further help in providing proper training to enhance drivers' driving skills.
(4) Security Monitoring
Video telematics system acts as a deterrent to theft and vandalism. In the event of unauthorized access or theft, video footage can aid in tracking down stolen vehicles and recovering the assets.

Read Blog : What Is The Difference Between Telematics And Video Telematics?

Final Words
In conclusion, it is undeniable that video telematics holds immense significance in organizations, particularly in the realm of fleet management. Although video telematics solutions offer a multitude of advantages, organizations must adopt and utilize the system responsibly.

If you are considering acquiring a video telematics solution, search no further as we present TrackoBit. This comprehensive solution offers a 360° visual coverage of your fleet, coupled with features such as route planning solutions, fuel management systems, sim-based tracking and much more.

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