Starting a new fleet means facing many crucial decisions. Deciding on telematics systems and safety technology is absolutely necessary. Implementing in-cab dashcams often feels like a serious management challenge. In fact, many professional drivers feel concerned about inward-facing cameras. A recent Geotab survey of European professional drivers confirms this feeling. They found that a large majority of drivers do worry about privacy. However, that same survey revealed a clear path to high driver adoption. New fleet managers must learn to focus on two key driver benefits to secure buy-in.

The Power of Protection and Exoneration

Drivers worry about cameras recording them all the time. Consequently, new fleet professionals need to stress the protection that video evidence provides. The Geotab survey showed that 92% of drivers worry about in-cab video use. Furthermore, an identical 92% will overlook those privacy concerns if the footage proves they were not at fault after a collision. That video evidence is incredibly powerful. When fleet managers implement video, they are offering personal protection to their drivers. Dashcams help defend the driver’s job and reputation against false claims and insurance disputes.

Instant Coaching Trumps Stored Footage

The way you use the camera footage directly impacts driver acceptance. Therefore, the survey results offer a major tip for new managers. Most drivers do not want their inward-facing video stored for later review. Instead, a strong majority of 87% prefer instant audio coaching. This coaching relies on artificial intelligence analyzing the video feed for risky behaviors. The system provides immediate, constructive feedback. Essentially, the driver gets real-time alerts about speeding or distraction. They can fix the issue instantly before an incident occurs. This proactive approach feels less punitive and much more collaborative. Conversely, fleet management teams should prioritize using video for coaching and not just punishment. Read more about using constructive strategies in this fleet safety guide: 5 Stages of a Successful Driver Coaching Session.

Closing the Fleet Education Gap

New fleet managers must address the “education gap” noted in the Geotab report. Drivers fear their data will be misused or shared outside the company. Specifically, they worry about footage being used out of context or for disciplinary action. Consequently, fleet leaders must be completely transparent. Define your coaching policy clearly from day one. You must outline when the team reviews the video and how the company protects the data. Ultimately, AI-powered dashcams are essential tools for safety and defense. Many top telematics providers, like Verizon Connect, now offer integrated AI dashcams built for this purpose: Transform Fleet Safety with AI Dashcams. This critical survey data comes from a Geotab press release. The release suggests that safety technology adoption succeeds when drivers understand the clear benefit to them personally. You can read the full findings here: Geotab Survey: 87% of Professional Drivers are Ready to Embrace In-Cab AI Coaching.

Also read: New Data Reveals 52% Spike in Near-Collisions & Driver Risks