As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) features for fleets improve. But for fleet managers, the first step to implement ADAS is not just looking at the technology, but at their drivers.
Ben Langley, Vice President of Training and Product Development at Driving Dynamics, said fleet managers should start the decision-making process for choosing ADAS systems by first assessing their own drivers.
“We recommend that managers start by looking at their own drivers. Who are they? Do they adapt well to technology? And where do they drive?” said Langley in a recent interview. “Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your drivers is crucial when considering advanced driver assistance systems for your fleet.”
Quiz: How Much do you know about Advanced Driver Assist Tech?
The Evolution of Fleet ADAS Features For Fleets
Companies with large fleets should invest in training that prepares drivers with the best practices to manage unexpected situations that can lead to crashes and collisions. Part of that training also can include the use of ADAS features for fleets.
About a third of all cars sold in the United States, as well as in most of Europe, China and Japan, have ADAS features. Engineers create these systems to interact with the driver, helping them improve how they react to dangers while driving.
Some of the most popular ADAS features include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Anti-lock Brakes
- Forward Collision Warning
- High Beam Safety System
- Lane Departure Warning
- Traffic Signals Recognition
- Traction control
Not every vehicle offers every feature. And the list is growing, as well. As AI evolves, experts predict that ADAS systems will connect wirelessly with other vehicles and infrastructure, providing a safer and more automated driving experience, according to Car and Driver.
Understanding Fleet Challenges
In addition to evaluating the performance of drivers and where they drive, fleet managers also should look at historical crash data and identify areas where the company has challenges. Crash data offers insights into the root causes of crashes and areas where driver training should focus.
Some of the leading causes of crashes include:
- Distracted driving. Distractions can include texting, talking on the phone, listening to loud music, trying to eat or drink while driving, taking your eyes off the road to look at something and daydreaming behind the wheel.
- Fatigue and drowsiness. Researchers now report that based on crash statistics, this is as dangerous as driving drunk.
- Speeding. Driving too fast includes not only exceeding the speed limit, but also driving too fast for the conditions (such as icy roads or rain).
Langley said fleet managers should focus training on the areas where their drivers have had difficulties in the past.
“We believe that the ultimate goal of every manager is to have their drivers complete their daily tasks, whether that’s selling a product, delivering a product or providing a service to a client, all of it should be done with excellence, and that includes the driving portion of the job task as well,” said Langley.
He also said drivers also must start any training with ADAS features with a firm understanding of their role in safety and fleet risk management.
“Getting the drivers home at the end of the day must be at the forefront of your thoughts, actions and decisions,” he said. “And the same holds true for the driver. They must accept the responsibility to complete their job tasks with excellence, including that driver task, as well.”
