Category: Blog

Canadian ELD Mandate: Quick Facts for Fleets

Posted on | by Anna | 1 Comment on Canadian ELD Mandate: Quick Facts for Fleets

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) for trucks in Canada are due to become compulsory by June 21, 2021. The Canadian ELD mandate will make paper logbooks a thing of the past and improve safety on the roads. Fitting licensed ELD devices to commercial vehicles will also help save Canadian trucking companies time and precious resources.

If you are involved in logistics and transportation, there is every chance that the ELD mandate will apply to you. Of course, Canadian transportation firms who have a cross-border business are already familiar with ELDs. The good news is that the Canadian ELD rule will generally be similar to regulations in the United States ELD rule as set out by the FMCSA. However, there are some differences between approved ELDs for Canadian roads and those allowed in the U.S.

In this article, you will find out the essential facts about the Canadian ELD Mandate. This will help you know how to implement necessary plans to comply with the ELD rule in Canada.

What is the ELD Mandate?

The ELD Mandate requires logging devices to be fitted to all commercial trucks in Canada. One of the basic needs of ELDs is to ensure that drivers and transportation companies comply with Federal laws. For example, ELDs record hours-of-service (HOS) and are designed so the information can’t be tampered with.

However, there is more to using ELDs than just HOS compliance. Fitting ELDs in commercial fleet vehicles will also improve driver well-being and safety. Due to the monotonous nature of long-distance driving and irregular schedules, drivers may suffer from poor rest and fatigue. Fitting ELDs is one way to reduce this risk. Other benefits of the ELD mandate include helping to streamline operations and improve driver communication. Also, information from logging devices can assist the police when investigating road accidents.

The ELD Mandate ensures that logging devices such as the Geotab Drive ELD meet uniform technical standards for the following information:

  • Logbook edits so that drivers can certify their Record of Duty Status (RODS) and make edits.
  • Data sharing to ensure that all ELDs have a standardized format to record and share data.
  • Data collection to provide information including location, engine data, and motion status.
  • Driver alerts to warn when it’s time to pull over to prevent violating HOS rules.
  • Drive duty status to allow for special driving conditions.

 

Do the ELD Rules Apply to Me? Who is Exempt from the ELD Rule?

Previously, fleets that were equipped with AOBRDs (Automatic On-Board Recording Devices) were exempted from the ELD mandate for 2 years. This grandfather period is now set to expire – meaning the countdown is on. If your business operates commercial vehicles such as trucks and busses, then ELD rules apply to you.

Transport Canada announced in 2017 that regulation-compliant ELDs will become mandatory and replace paper logs. There are, however, some exemptions from the Canadian ELD mandate. For example, vehicles manufactured before 2000 are exempt from the rule as are vehicles that are subject to a rental agreement with terms under 30 days. For a full list of exemptions and additional information, refer to the Canada Gazette, Part II, Volume 153.

Canada v.s U.S. Mandate

Thankfully, if your transportation company already conducts cross-border deliveries, some aspects of the ELD regulations in Canada will remain the same. This means that you can use a single electronic device logging system in both Canada and the U.S. For example, how vehicle data is collected, driver notifications, standardized formats to share information, and recording HOS have similar regulations between the two countries.
The Canadian mandate will also be similar to the U.S mandate in that the ELD will be required to:

  • Synchronize with the vehicle engine
  • Provide GPS tracking and automatically capture drive time
  • Allow drivers to use special driving status including yard moves and personal conveyances

*Note, this is not a complete list

One of the most important differences between the U.S. and Canada ELD mandate is the type of logging device used. Devices in Canada must be third-party certified rather than being self-certified as the U.S. mandate requires. Another key difference is that Canadian ELDs must meet the Technical Standard for Electronic Logging Devices.

Canadian ELD Rule: Timeline

So, if your business deals in logistics and transportation, now is the time to make sure you are all set to be compliant by 2021. Remember, there is no “grandfather” period allowed in the Canadian mandate. So, this means that the earlier you comply with the new rules, the better. Here is a quick rundown of the important dates in the Canadian ELD mandate:

  • December 16, 2017 the Government of Canada published proposals for introducing the ELD mandate
  • June 13, 2019 Transport Canada published the final rule on ELDs in Gazette II
  • June 12, 2021 is the compliance date by which all commercial vehicles must have ELDs fitted and no longer use paper logbooks

GoFleet’s ELD Solution

How can you make sure that you are compliant by June 2021? At GoFleet, we supply ELDs for HOS and DVIR. These logging solutions already meet US Federal FMCSA 395.15 regulations and will be compliant with the Canadian ELD mandate.

For example, the Geotab Drive ELD Bundle logs HOS, DVIR, and provides all the services you need to comply with the Canadian ELD rule. This logging device doesn’t just help you comply, but it helps your company improve driver safety, includes a dash camera, and maximizes vehicle uptime.

You can also use the ELD bundle with Geotab GO9 that provides complete fleet GPS tracking solutions. The combination of these fleet management devices gives you real-time vehicle location, engine diagnostics, driver alerts, and also maintenance reminders.

Need more information on our ELD solution? Request a demo

How does it Benefit my Business?

Rather than being a burden for transportation companies in Canada, ELDs have many benefits. If you operate commercial trucks, vehicles, or busses, what are the benefits of electronic logging devices? Here are just a few:

  • Improve driver safety. Facts prove that drivers in trucks with ELDs cause fewer accidents than vehicles that are not fitted with logging devices.
  • Boost productivity. Knowing exactly where drivers are located and being able to plan routes efficiently increases productivity.
  • Save money on fuel costs. Improving driver behavior and planning shorter routes combine to make better fuel savings for transportation companies.
  • Increase vehicle uptime. Regular diagnostic alerts and reports on recurring vehicle issues help fleet managers arrange preventative maintenance. This helps to reduce instances of breakdowns on the road.

Sources:

https://eld.fmcsa.dot.gov/
https://www.canada.ca/en/transport-canada/news/2017/12/transport_canadamandatesnewtechnologiesfortrucksandbusestoimprov.html
http://www.gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p2/2019/2019-06-12/html/sor-dors165-eng.html

Choosing a Commercial Truck GPS Tracking Device

Choosing a Commercial Truck GPS Tracking Device? Here is Your Guide

Posted on | by Anna | Leave a Comment on Choosing a Commercial Truck GPS Tracking Device? Here is Your Guide

Commercial truck GPS tracking devices offer logistics companies many benefits. Just think how having the ability to track all your commercial trucks could streamline your operations. You can coordinate vehicles, provide faster delivery times, and improve your efficiency. All of these benefits can result in better customer satisfaction and better use of your precious resources.

How can you choose the best GPS truck tracking systems for your fleet management needs? In this comprehensive guide, you will find out all you need to know about commercial truck tracking devices and software.

Before we look at how to choose the best commercial GPS truck tracking solution, we need to know the answer to the question: what exactly is commercial truck tracking?

What are GPS Truck Tracking Devices?

Simply put, commercial vehicle tracking involves using GPS trackers to know the location of your trucks. The devices are connected to truck tracking GPS software that displays all necessary information about the vehicles.

So, imagine that you have a fleet of trucks to manage. Using truck tracking software allows you to see in real-time exactly where your trucks are located. You can also gather data on each vehicle to check driving speed and estimated arrival times.

Why Invest in Commercial Truck Tracking Devices?

One of the most important reasons to invest in truck tracking software is to improve efficiency.

For example, if you are a fleet manager, you can plan better routes, communicate with drivers, and improve fuel efficiency. This can give your company a great advantage over your competitors. Why? Because you can provide first-class customer service.

Another reason to choose reliable GPS truck tracking devices is security. For instance, trailer tracking devices can send alerts if trailers are moved without authorization. Also, you can get real-time information on the trailer’s location that you can share with the police.

Who Benefits from Truck Tracking Solutions?

There are a number of industries that benefit from installing truck tracking software. Truck tracking devices can improve fleet management in any of the following sectors:

  • Delivery companies
  • Waste disposal firms
  • Construction companies
  • Trucking businesses
  • Towing companies
  • Chemical transportation
  • Construction
  • Any business operating a fleet of commercial vans

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Commercial Truck Tracking Systems that Benefits Your Business

Let’s look in more detail at the types of commercial truck GPS tracking devices. Knowing how these systems work will help you know the advantages of installing tracking software and devices.

Truck Tracking Devices to Improve Productivity

At the heart of any robust commercial fleet management system is a GPS vehicle tracking device. This allows your fleet manager to be in constant contact with all their drivers.

One of the best GPS truck tracking systems is GoFleet Geotab GO9 truck tracking device. This provides precise vehicle diagnostics, audible driver alerts, and real-time truck tracking. What’s more, the device can be integrated with Garmin devices and satellite systems to expand its many uses.  

So, you can keep your commercial trucks operating efficiently with minimal downtime. Truck tracking devices allow you to find the quickest routes, avoid traffic congestion, and ensure drives stick to speed limits. All of this helps to reduce fuel costs.

Also, keeping your fleet of trucks properly serviced ensures that they break down less and your business operates efficiently.

In fact, a study from the US found that the best telematics systems can significantly reduce operating and maintenance costs. This resulted in a reduction in fuel costs, repair bills, and even in reported accidents.

There are even more benefits with using truck tracking services. To illustrate, here are just a few more productivity benefits:

  • Better driving habits result in less wear and tear on vehicles
  • Instant alerts help you schedule upcoming maintenance
  • Routing and scheduling information helps improve customer and employee satisfaction

Ensure Driver Compliance with Truck Tracking GPS Services

Truck tracking software for commercial vehicles also helps improve driver safety and monitor driving habits. This can not only help improve driver performance but also make driving less stressful.

For example, a report by the United Kingdom government found that stress while driving increased instances of road accidents. Stress also resulted in drivers taking more risks on the road. Truck tracking systems can help to eliminate driver stress.

For instance, you can ensure that your drivers take the required breaks. At the same time, you can also make sure that they’re not having longer breaks than they should. You can also ensure they are sticking to designated routes and obeying speed limits. Commercial truck tracking devices also help plan better routes to avoid busy and congested roads.

So, rather than being a way to spy on drivers, GPS truck tracking software helps improve driver behavior and safety.

GPS Trailer Tracking Enhances Security

Truck fleet tracking that involves trailer tracking brings more important benefits to fleet management.

One of the reasons why logistic companies install trailer tracking solutions is to know where their trailers are at all times. This is essential information helps to schedule and plan deliveries in the most efficient way. You are then able to minimize disruption to your services and increase customer satisfaction.

One essential part of a GPS trailer tracking system is the Flex Solar-Powered Asset Tracker. This device is the perfect solution for trailers, dry containers, or heavy equipment. The self-charging unit allows for constant trailer tracking without worrying about replacing batteries. The solar-powered device is also built to withstand water, dust, and impact.

GPS Truck Tracking Systems to Make your Business More Competitive

Tracking devices for trucks such as Geotab GO9, solar-powered asset trackers, and Garmin devices give your business the competitive edge. The ways that commercial truck tracking devices make your business more competitive include:

  • Lowering operating costs
  • Improving driver compliance
  • Maintaining fleet vehicles
  • Providing better customer service

These benefits come from installing devices that provide real-time information along with truck tracking software.

In conclusion

Using commercial truck tracking devices is one of the best ways to manage commercial vehicles. The data you receive through GPS devices helps you improve all aspects of commercial truck fleet management.

How Telematics is Changing Fleet Management Systems

Posted on | by Anna | Leave a Comment on How Telematics is Changing Fleet Management Systems

Introducing Telematics

Telematics systems provide complete fleet management solutions for businesses big and small. Installing telematics fleet management systems enables the complete tracking of vehicles from optimizing vehicle maintenance to improving customer service. Telematics fleet management solutions benefit businesses by improving efficiency, lowering operating costs, and promoting better driver safety.

Vehicle telematics systems use a combination of a GPS receiver, a telematics device, and communication devices. These devices monitor and relay important information on vehicle use. In some ways, you could call telematics systems the “black box” of the vehicle industry.

In this article, you will learn exactly what a telematics system is. You will also find out how these technological solutions can improve corporate fleet management. 

What is Telematics?

The term “telematics” is a combination of telecommunications and informatics. In the context of fleet management systems, telematics allows information to be sent from vehicles to a centralized database. Fleet managers are then able to analyze and process the information to develop transport solutions and optimize the use of company’s resources.

The main industries that benefit from telematics solutions are logistic companies, insurance companies, and businesses who operate commercial fleet vehicles.

For example, vehicle telematics systems can record information such as location, driving speed, idling time, fuel consumption, tire pressure, vehicle faults, and driving habits. Business owners and managers are then able to schedule vehicle maintenance, use resources more efficiently, and improve their employee’s driving habits.

As a result of these reports and diagnostics, investing in telematics systems can result in great savings in transport operating costs.

How Does Telematics Work?

The main components for a telematics system in a car or other vehicle to work are:

  • a GPS telematics antenna
  • a telematics device that includes an accelerometer
  • a SIM card to transmit data over a cellular network

Due to these components, telematics captures areas such as productivity, driving habits, and diagnostics.

Productivity

The GPS telematics system shows in real-time and records data such as speed, location, and types of roads the driver uses.

Driving Habits

In addition to monitoring productivity, telematics devices uses sensors to record driving habit data. For example, suburban fleets may use telematics to monitor and reduce risky driving habits such as harsh braking, harsh cornering, fast acceleration and speeding.

Diagnostics

Because the vehicle telematics “black box” is connected to the vehicle’s onboard computer, diagnostic data is also recorded as part of the intelligent telematics reporting. 

Telematics Solutions for Fleet Management

Why are fleet management telematics a standard part of the industry? The biggest reason is because telematics goes hand-in-hand with effective fleet management.

Fleet managers are responsible for goals such as optimizing fleet resources, improving customer service, increasing safety, and monitoring maintenance. Telematics provides data for fleet managers to realize all of those goals.

 

Telematics Navigation: Vehicle and Trailer Tracking

There are multiple ways that GPS telematics can be used as tracking software for fleet management solutions.

For example, logistics companies can work out the best route to take to increase delivery time or maximize fuel efficiency. Or, real-time GPS fleet tracking can help dispatch the nearest driver to a job or incident (in the case of emergency services).

However, vehicle tracking is also useful to locate stolen cars, trucks or trailers. In fact, if a trailer or vehicle is moved without authorization, an alert can be sent instantly to the fleet manager.

 

Telematics in Cars: Maintenance Monitoring

Telematics devices improves maintenance schedules and extends vehicle lifespans.

For example, by using fleet telematics solutions, businesses can schedule preventative maintenance and track engine hours. Diagnostic alerts can also help repair small issues before they develop into major costly repairs.

Due to the fact that vehicle telematics helps keep cars in a safe operating condition, they also go a long way to improving road safety.

 

Fleet Telematics: Safety Reporting

By analyzing reports on driving behavior, business owners can minimize the risks caused by poor driving habits.

Apart from telematics monitoring driver behavior, there are many telematics device add-ons that can boost safety. For example, devices that prevent driving distractions, collision avoidance systems, and lone worker safety solutions all help improve safety.

Telematics solutions are also effective to increase productivity and safety in large industrial vehicles. For example, the Go RUGGED telematics device has been specifically designed for vehicles such as farm machinery, off-road vehicles, dump trucks, and mining equipment.

It is also good to remember that bad driving habits don’t just put other road users at risk. They also shorten the life cycle of the car by putting the vehicle under unnecessary wear and tear. Fast acceleration and harsh braking also negatively impact on fuel efficiency.

In the event of an accident, GPS telematics devices along with dash cams can provide accurate data to reconstruct the event. This can help to save money on falsified insurance claims. What’s more, by installing telematics devices on fleet cars, companies may be able to save money on insurance premiums.

 

Intelligent Telematics Solutions

Apart from being useful in tracking driver habits and optimizing fleet vehicle management, there are a number of practical ways that telematics work.

Using telematics for predicting traffic conditions can help drivers plan their best route to avoid congestion and hazards. This can not only help companies continue to provide good customer service but it can help to minimize driver stress and improve job satisfaction.

Intelligent telematics fleet solutions also save money on fuel costs. Choosing the most effective route, avoiding idling in traffic, and driving at reasonable speeds all improves fuel efficiency.  

 

Fleet Management Telematics Use Case

Lastly, let’s explore a 2019 use case. Consider one of our recent clients. Like many other fleets, they were a second-time telematics user. Also similarly to other fleets, they understand that using telematics is much more than tracking vehicle location.

For that reason, their use case was more complex. They wanted a custom solution that tracked their vehicles, actionized vehicle data, and provided rich data. As a result, our product team designed the following solution.

GO9 Device

Firstly, our product team provided the brand-new Geotab GO9 tracker – an updated version of the Geotab GO7. The client was one of the world’s first GO9 users. In addition to providing rich telematics data, the GO9 is future proof and will be able to handle future fleet management needs such as tracking electric vehicles.

Automation Software

Secondly, our product team developed and provided automation software. Automation software actionizes telematics data by assigning tasks to telematics triggers. For instance, our client used ZenduMA to automatically assign a mechanic job whenever a driver reported a vehicle defect on their DVIR.

Rich Data

Thirdly, our product team provided rich data by providing a camera solution. ZenduCAM provides valuable video footage to make sense of numerical data. For instance, our client started using footage to follow up on safety incidents and unexplained vehicle damage.

 

Key Takeaway

Hence, the key takeaway is that fleet telematics is now more than collecting vehicle data. In 2019, fleets expect telematics to provide rich data and to actionize that data into business activity.

Sources

Business Fleet

Telematics Helps Materials Placement Company Reduce Costs

Research Gate

A Telematics Application for Stolen Vehicle Recovery Using On-Device Position Fixing

How to Increase Dispatching Efficiency

Posted on | by Wisam Abou-diab | Leave a Comment on How to Increase Dispatching Efficiency

 

Running a business is not always easy, as you always have to move with trends and provide efficient services for your customers. This is applicable in dispatching. Knowing the latest trends and keeping up with satisfying your customer’s needs is essential. In this article, we will be giving you tips on how to increase dispatch efficiencies.

 

 

1. Hire the Right People

 

Dispatch Process

 

Some business owners make the mistake of hiring the wrong people for the wrong positions, this eventually becomes a disaster in the long run. If you are in dispatching and you are looking to hire new workers, be sure to hire qualified people for the position of a dispatcher. This is because dispatching is an integral part of the company and having the wrong people handle this position could damage the companies reputation. So be very conscious!

 

During the hiring process, look out for people with multi-tasking skills and tech knowledge. Also, seek excellent communicators that are familiar with the services and the locality of the company.

 

 

2. Define Your Process

 

In every business, the process is an important factor. Your business should be able to follow a very well defined and effective work process to avoid confusion and increase productivity. In dispatching, this factor is very essential as it helps your workers or dispatchers know their duty or work for the day. With proper daily documentation, strict adherence to work processes and adequate staff training, the efficiency level of your business will increase drastically.

 

 

3. Optimize Your Dispatch

 

Increase Dispatching Efficiency

 

Another way to keep your customers happy and satisfied is to optimize your dispatch by prioritizing which customers need an immediate response. In the medical field, this is known as the triage. This is a situation where doctors and nurses determine which case is an emergency and needs an immediate response.

 

Similarly, dispatchers have the power to determine which customer needs the immediate attention of a tech. So look out and prioritize cases of emergencies that cannot wait another day over those that can wait another few days.

 

This strategy will not only improve the efficiency of the dispatch but make your customers happy and satisfied.

 

 

4. Efficient Routing

 

Dispatching Efficiency

 

We all want our customers to be happy and always come back for our services. One way to achieve this in dispatching is to provide efficient routing and quick deliveries or services to your customers. This can be attained by keeping your service providers and technicians local to calls in their areas. This is an advantage as it will lead to better management of fuel and shorter drive time.

 

 

5. Utilize Computer Aided Dispatch

 

Computer Aided Dispatch is the means of using computer dispatching software like ZenduWork to dispatch couriers, taxi cabs, technicians, field services, and more. ZenduWork automatically optimizes routes and allows you to organize your work orders, making your dispatching operations more efficient.

 

 

In conclusion, you should pay attention to your dispatchers and always check the services your customers need. You should also utilize the tools of the industry, and look for software that best suits your needs once you have outlined them.

 

 

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The Benefits of Using E Forms

Posted on | by Wisam Abou-diab | Leave a Comment on The Benefits of Using E Forms

Forms are vital documents for every business, government organization, and enterprise as they help the various businesses and organizations get details and information of clients and customers. For instance, Schools use forms to register their students and pupils, customer services use forms for inquiries, also hospitals and health centers use forms to get their patients information and health history.

 

As the world is gradually evolving to become a more digital and technological community, it is no surprise that the conventional way of creating paperwork and paper forms are becoming extinct because of the innovation of e forms or electronic forms.

 

Since it’s innovation, e forms have proven to be beneficial to both organizations and their users/clients. Below are some of the ways that e forms are beneficial.

 

 

1. More Access

 

Benefits of E forms

 

Whether you are close by or on a trip far away, you will always have access to an e form. With a good internet connection, you can access your e form wherever you are in the world especially if it is a cloud base. In order words, paperless forms have provided a solution for remote access users or clients. That is to say, forms can be easily and digitally routed from one location to another without the conventional stress.

 

 

2. Saves Effort

 

 

Benefits of e forms

 

Collecting forms using the conventional way only proves to be stressful and a waste of effort at times. Businesses and large organizations like hospitals that receive forms every day have to deal with many issues and errors on paper forms submitted by patients. If an organization chooses to use e forms, on the other hand, it helps eliminate the issue of deciphering a client/patients handwriting, errors and transcribed data. Hence, saving time, effort and labor.

 

 

3. Easy Control of Form Quality

 

Using e forms enables an organization to control the data they are collecting. This can be done by creating controls to make sure that customers and clients are submitting correct phone numbers and email addresses etc. E forms also help the organization to always be updated and to gather error-free information by integrating form fields with existing databases and classifying synchronized data by sending them automatically to their systems.

 

 

4. No Paper

 

Benefits of e forms

 

The opportunity to use less paper or no paper is very beneficial to both the user and the organization. Paper forms can be quite expensive to produce and can easily create clutter which can be very disorganizing. A form or two is very likely to get lost in a pile of forms. In order words, paper forms are expensive and time-consuming.

 

Another downside of using paper forms is that users can easily make mistakes and errors while filling them and corrections cannot be made hence, making the form look disorganized and less presentable. Using e forms, on the other hand, the user will have the opportunity to correct their work, save their progress and start all over if not satisfied.

 

 

Summary

 

As we look for new ways to increase the quality and service of our businesses, it is essential to understand that Forms are very important to the growth of every organization and should be treated like that. If you haven’t started using electronic forms for your business and organizations by now, consider giving it a try with a few forms, and you will immediately see the benefits. E forms will provide a smooth administrative growth for your business and great services to your clients.

 

 

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Technology to Prevent & Stop Distracted Driving

Posted on | by Wisam Abou-diab | Leave a Comment on Technology to Prevent & Stop Distracted Driving

Imagine this.

 

You’re having a great morning. You’ve just left the house after enjoying some coffee and you’re on your way to get some groceries. While you’re on the road, you pass by another car and you notice the person inside is looking down at their phone.

 

Now I’m sure this situation has been observed multiple times by people who regularly drive. But this is more than just a regular occurrence and texting while driving should be taken more seriously. Sure, you could look down at a text for a second and nothing might happen. But there is a chance that your act of looking away from the road for a few seconds could end in disaster.

 

Worst case scenario?

Check out this short video on how a distracted driver changed lives forever by having two eyes on his cell phone instead of the road ahead.

 

 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving was linked to 3,450 deaths in 2016, making up 9.2% of all motor vehicle-related fatalities. So what can you do? Well, if you have a fleet you might want to look into some distracted driving solutions. GoFleet, for example, offers two solutions currently – their Driver Distraction Camera and their FleetGuardian.

The FleetGuardian Solution

FleetGuardian is for the driver who needs to stay connected and the company that is serious about safety. It’s basically a tamper-proof safety box for drivers to store their phone in while they are busy driving while allowing for Bluetooth connectivity for easy hands – free communication.

 

It connects to a GO7 tracking device through the IOX port and can track if the drivers haven’t placed the phone inside the box when the car is moving. This is a great feature that allows you to monitor if your drivers are using the boxes and if not, you can correct the issue.

 

Another plus to the FleetGuardian, is how easy it is to set up, since its just hardware (a box with a cable). Other solutions like apps, take some time to configure.

Technology for Distracted Driving

Driver Distraction Camera

Technology for Distracted Driving

 

Driver Distraction Camera you say? Yes, it’s real, and it is almost ready for the public to use. The ZenduCAM Driver Distraction Camera is the world’s most advanced fatigue detection and driver distraction alert camera. The camera features facial recognition technology which detects when the driver is distracted (this includes alerts when the driver is texting, eating, micro-sleeping, holding a phone, yawning, and more). This amazing advancement even works in the night time due to twelve infrared LEDs. It also sounds audible alerts when it detects any distraction.

 

via GIPHY

I know, crazy…

 

With so many options to help prevent distracted driving, I recommend investing in a solution that is right for you and your business. Whether that means a preventative solution, or protective solution – any way to keep the roads safer is always a good bet.

 

 

 

Check out our other blog on Distracted Driving!

 

What’s Considered as Distracted Driving?

Steps You Need to Take to Protect Your Vehicles

Posted on | by Wisam Abou-diab | Leave a Comment on Steps You Need to Take to Protect Your Vehicles

Whether you are a small or large business, it’s never too late to look into solutions to protect and optimize your vehicles for the sake of protecting them. Personally speaking, my car is my baby. And by baby I mean she has a name, gets regular car washes…

 

via GIPHY

 

…new air fresheners every week …

 

via GIPHY

… and is equipped with a dash cam. Basically, I love her. And because I love her so much, I do the best I can to protect her, for my own peace of mind.

 

If you own a fleet, your vehicles should be your babies too. They get your services/products to places they need to go, and your business probably wouldn’t be the same without them. So let’s discuss some ways you can protect them and sleep better at night.

 

Firstly, knowing the location of your vehicles would probably be the first thing that comes to mind. Currently, many different solutions exist for vehicle tracking and the one you choose would be based on your needs. GO7’s are essential in my book, as they provide your basic tracking functions as well as advanced diagnostics and driver behavior tracking. The reason I recommend GO7’s is mainly because of how seamlessly you can add more hardware or software depending on your needs. (Add-ons like ELD, & GoTalk for example) Plus, they are easily installed without any hardwiring, making them a good choice for fleets of any size. Simply put, if the GO7 could talk, it would be like…

 

On the other hand, let’s talk about those dash cams I mentioned earlier. Dash cams are the eyes of your vehicles, except they record what they see too. We hear stories every day about insurance fraud, hit and runs etc. What if you had proof of an incident? Would you be more likely to win your case and avoid large fees? Absolutely! Check out this video captured on a dash cam of a driver who bumped into another vehicle and tried to imply that it was the other driver’s fault –

 

“No, you reversed into me” – Lying driver caught out on dash cam

 

Unbelievable right? But it happens all the time. So take the necessary steps to protect your vehicles. They are your precious investment (aka your babies) and you deserve a peace of mind.

What’s Considered as Distracted Driving?

Posted on | by Wisam Abou-diab | Leave a Comment on What’s Considered as Distracted Driving?

By definition, distracted driving seems pretty simple. If something is causing a driver to compromise their judgement while driving – it is considered a distraction. Typically, most people associate distracted driving with electronic devices. It has now become common knowledge that you absolutely cannot be using your phone while driving or even hold it in your hands. Well, unless your idea of fun includes paying up to $1000 and receiving three demerit points (not to mention a suspended license for 30 days for a first conviction).

 

What is considered as distracted driving

 

Still sound like fun? No? Just don’t use your phone while driving. While that statement is applicable everywhere that roads exist, these consequences come directly from Ontario’s laws. So if you’re from Ontario, pay extra attention folks.

 

Now that we are familiar with the consequences of using an electronic device while driving, let’s discuss what else constitutes distracted driving according to the RCMP.

 

 

Did Matt’s infamous “shortcut” get you lost again? Well, you’re going to have to pull over and type your destination into the GPS when you aren’t driving.

 

Wondering if you missed any information in that document you just signed? You’ll need to wait until you are no longer driving in order to read it.

 

Is Friday by Rebecca Black blaring through your speakers? Well, you can apologise to your ears after you pull over because you can’t switch playlists while driving either.

 

 

Oh, and that burrito in the passenger seat that you just picked up? It might be calling your name but if you choose to eat it on the road, a distracted driving violation could be waiting for you too (Plus six demerits depending on the food).

 

Eating Distracted Driving

 

 

Got it?

 

Basically, distracted driving isn’t only limited to the use of electronics. You could be combing your hair while merging to be found guilty of distracted driving. So let’s get into specifics, the following actions that are considered as distracted driving: 

 

  • Talking on a cell phone
  • Texting
  • Reading (books, maps, newspapers for example)
  • Using a GPS navigator
  • Watching videos or movies
  • Eating /drinking
  • Smoking
  • Personal grooming
  • Adjusting the radio / CD
  • Playing extremely loud music

 

So What?

 

Look, rules are broken all the time. But when it comes to distracted driving, breaking the rules could mean the difference between life and death. In fact, 80% of collisions and 65% of near crashes have some form of driver inattention as contributing factors according to the National Highway Safety Administration. With statistics like those, companies have started to take preventative action by implementing ways to monitor distracted driving on the roads.

 

 

What’s Being Done About it?

 

Solutions like alert systems to tell drivers to slow down when they’re speeding, for example, can help create a safer environment on the road. GoFleet specifically offers solutions to act as deterrents for distracted driving; like their variety of cameras, hands-free communication alternatives, and cellphone disabling systems. A cool feature that we will see available on the market is Video AI. This technology processes facial contours to determine if people are distracted or not while they are driving, and sends notifications to managers. The system is able to detect when the driver is texting, eating, micro-sleeping, holding a phone, yawning and more. It can be suggested that reactions leading to crashes usually occur when the driver in question is being distracted while operating the vehicle. Technology is making big moves people!

 

 

Many companies run reports and try to further educate drivers on how to drive safely so fewer accidents occur due to distractions. What’s more, goFleet also offers solutions for disabling mobile devices while the driver is on a route, as well as intelligent cameras that recognize if the eyes are looking down, or if there’s a phone in your hand, if you’re eating and more! See our solutions by clicking here.

 

Okay so, just to clarify – no phone use while driving. At all.

 

Do not take your eyes off the road to pull out your lunch, and definitely do not try to do your makeup on the way to work. Anything that could limit you from being focused while driving should be avoided. Let’s work together to be more aware and keep the streets safer.

 

Distracted Driving

 

What are the Benefits of an ELD?

Posted on | by Diana Savras | Leave a Comment on What are the Benefits of an ELD?

ELDs or Electronic Logging Devices are fairly new to the trucking world. Some people love them, others wish they never existed. But regardless of where you stand on the matter, you cannot deny that ELDs don’t have any benefits. Their primary uses include monitoring other driving habits in addition to driving hours, but that’s not all they’re useful for! Let’s dig a little deeper into the benefits of an ELD together…

 

Do ELDs Improve Fleet’s Safety?

 

It comes as no surprise that 90% of accidents are influenced by driver behaviour. By using the driver coaching features that ELDs offer, driving habits can be made safer and reduce the likelihood of accidents occurring. Things like speeding, harsh braking or acceleration, and optimized routes can be easily tracked by ELDs and help to monitor drivers. These features allow future employers to have a track record of how the driver performed and was rated for safety – allowing fleet managers to hire the safest drivers and keep the roads free of accidents.

 

How not to drive trucks and cars:

 

(PS: Maintain those good driving habits people!)

 

 

 

Less Paperwork with ELDs

 

ELDs allow companies to go paperless, leaving no room for human error. They allow drivers to save time by not having to go through the tedious process of logging their hours individually. With ELDs, the need for drivers to fill in their logs by hand and have them faxed while they are on the road is eliminated. Without ELDs, inspections take longer because of the paperwork that has to be searched through to find errors or HOS violations. This leads to drivers waiting… and waiting……..and waiting…

 

via GIPHY

But with ELDs, clear logs provide the information needed instantly, helping the repair shop identify the issue and help get the driver back on the road in no time! With the ability to monitor maintenance alerts, drivers can catch faulty issues before they become an even bigger, more time – consuming problem. Less time at a repair shop = more time on the road.

 

 

$ How ELDs Save Money?

 

With features such as driver coaching, another benefit of an ELD is it helps business save money. Why you ask? Believe it or not, 30% of fuel costs are influenced by driver behavior. Fear not however, because driver coaching features can actually help to improve fuel efficiency by up to 12% and reduce fuel usage by 18%! Another way ELDs help businesses save money is by optimizing the shortest routes for reduced fuel costs.

 

More on driver coaching, did you know distracted driving that leads to accidents impacts businesses in more ways than just inconvenience? It’s true. An accident drains a companies wallet in terms of legal expenses, for the driver and anyone else involved, as well as downtime and any replacement costs.

 

By keeping tabs on drivers and their activities, companies can save on costly federal audits with HOS data that’s more reliable than reports written by people. (Hey, we’re human – mistakes happen!) ELDs are also able to provide maintenance reports, this comes in handy when a driver knows about a problem before they get sidelined, and have to spend more money on last-minute repairs as well as downtime.

 

Optimization is incredibly important in any business. By having the right tools to retrieve data that can reveal areas where a business has been lacking and can improve previously unknown inefficiencies, it can be a surprise to see how much can be saved financially.

 

Make It Rain Money GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

 

 

Click here to see our fully FMCSA compliant, easy to use ELD solutions

 

 

Like this blog? We have more!

 

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ELD Mandate Canada: Check Out Our Complete Guide

How to Track Equipment: Construction, Hospitals, Warehouses

Posted on | by Diana Savras | Leave a Comment on How to Track Equipment: Construction, Hospitals, Warehouses

Tracking your Assets Locations

 

Companies understand that knowing where their assets are at all times is crucial. Whether this includes small tools or large equipment, keeping track of these assets helps companies prevent theft, loss, and damage. More so, ensuring a company’s assets are monitored can help save time and money- resulting in a more optimized, organized system. So how do you track equipment?

 

In recent years, beacons have been introduced to multiple industries for what appears to be a limitless amount of ways to utilize them to their full potential. Today we will be focusing on how some industries such as construction sites, hospitals, and warehouses have taken advantage of these beacons to track their equipment locations.

 

 

 

Bluetooth & Cellular Beacons – What’s the Difference?

 

Firstly, it is important to understand which companies would benefit from either Bluetooth or Cellular beacons. Simply put, Bluetooth beacons are a good option for companies who want to track their equipment in close proximity (a warehouse for example). Bluetooth beacons have limitations when it comes to their connectivity over long distances as they are limited to a specific range, but their advantage is that they are typically more cost-effective.

 

Cellular beacons, on the other hand, have more capabilities in terms of tracking equipment which are traveling longer distances, they also do not require mobile gateways and mobile apps to work unlike Bluetooth powered beacons.

 

 

Problem VS Solution

 

Losing equipment due to poor inventory management? Beacons help manage your inventory efficiently while saving you money. Arrived at a site only to find that equipment was forgotten? Beacons help ensure the equipment you require is in the vehicle before you leave.

 

how to track equipment

 

Not only that, but they also have embedded sensors that can measure things like impact, battery life, temperature, light exposure, and proximity. These beacons can be attached to equipment, tools, controlled temperature environments, and personnel to track climate management, equipment inventory, parts inventory, and personnel tracking.

 

 

Equipment Tracking for Hospitals

 

how to track equipment - hospital

 

Beacons have become a popular choice for hospitals because they help paramedics focus on saving lives instead of worrying about tracking their assets and emergency vehicles. They do this by helping paramedics know the location of stretchers, defibrillators, heart monitors and other important equipment.

 

By using the beacons, paramedics are able to receive immediate notifications for forgotten, lost or misplaced equipment while helping to uncover them by knowing who used them last and where. It is important for hospitals to track medical equipment and their usage with beacons as they streamline the maintenance of the equipment while saving money by eliminating loss and theft.

 

 

Equipment Tracking for Construction Companies

 

how to track equipment - construction

 

Construction companies are another popular industry that uses beacons regularly as they have multiple assets to monitor at construction sites – mainly large equipment. Because beacons can have waterproof enclosures and a range of 250 meters, they are a popular choice for construction companies to invest in, in order to monitor their small to heavy equipment.

 

Further, a permanent gateway for 24/7 inventory management can be installed. This way, when inventory leaves facilities it can be tracked along with the vehicle that transported the goods by tracking vehicles as they enter and leave a property or designated area. Upon arrival, the arrival time and location can be confirmed. Beacons also help construction companies save money by accurately costing jobs, reducing labor costs and overtime while improving worksite compliance.

 

 

Equipment Tracking for Warehouses

 

how to track equipment - warehouse

 

Warehouses keep track of endless kinds of goods, so they need a way to monitor different aspects in order to ensure the goods arrive at their final destination on time and in great shape. With the use of beacons, warehouses can receive real-time information on location, temperature, impact and light exposure as previously mentioned. These sensory additions to the beacons are crucial for sensitive goods.

 

Beacons provide the ability to track pallets in real time, confirm deliveries, and receive alerts when pallets enter or exit customer locations. With so many ways to optimize warehouse operations, beacons ultimately help to reduce labor costs as well as overtime in warehouse industries.

 

Knowing the benefits of beacons and how they can help improve operations in different industries can help optimize almost any business. Applying devices that help to monitor assets in more ways than just location is just the beginning; with the world of technology constantly evolving we are so excited to see where we go from here!

 

 

Like this blog? Rate us and Check out our other blog on tracking equipment/assets!

 

FAQs – Asset Tracking Services