In modern fleet management, dash cams and telematics systems have become essential tools. While their value in providing clear evidence after an accident is undisputed, their greatest potential lies in preventing that accident from ever happening. Fleets that only review footage after a collision are missing the opportunity to identify and correct risky behaviors proactively. Using video and telematics data as a foundation for a structured coaching program can dramatically reduce incidents and improve overall driver performance.

Identify Coachable Moments

Modern telematics systems automatically flag high-risk events such as hard braking, rapid acceleration, sharp cornering, and speeding. When paired with video, these events provide a complete picture of the context. A hard-braking event, for example, could be the result of a distracted driver following too closely, or it could be a skillful defensive maneuver to avoid another motorist’s error. The first step is to review the flagged events to distinguish between poor habits and necessary defensive actions. Focus on patterns of behavior—like consistent tailgating or rolling stops—as these are the coachable moments that signal a high-risk driver.

Structure the Coaching Conversation

The success of a data-driven coaching program hinges on communication. The goal is to be a coach, not a disciplinarian. When meeting with a driver, present the data and video in a non-confrontational manner. Instead of saying, “You were following too closely,” try asking, “Can you walk me through what was happening in this situation?” This opens a dialogue, allowing the driver to explain their perspective. Use the video to point out specific risks and discuss safer alternatives. The conversation should be collaborative, focusing on shared goals of safety and professionalism, and should end with a clear understanding of the expectations for improvement.

Track Progress and Reward Improvement

Coaching is not a one-time event. After a session, continue to monitor telematics data to track the driver’s progress. When you see tangible improvement—such as an increase in average following distance or a reduction in speeding alerts—be sure to acknowledge it. Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator and helps build trust in the program. Recognizing drivers who successfully improve their safety scores shows that the system is not just for catching mistakes but also for celebrating success. This positive feedback loop is key to creating lasting behavioral change and fostering a fleet-wide commitment to safety.