This publish is a part of a sequence sponsored by IAT Insurance coverage Group.
Lane-change incidents and sideswipe collisions are more and more widespread however not often clear-cut.
Practically 75% of large trucks involved in fatal crashes collided with one other automobile, which incorporates sideswipe and merging accidents. In 63% of deadly crashes, the essential precrash occasion concerned one other automobile, individual or object coming into the truck’s lane, whereas 32% had no less than one driver-related issue, corresponding to distraction or inattention.
With so many variables in play and authorized legal responsibility typically assumed earlier than info are confirmed, fleets want extra than simply eyewitness accounts. They want clear proof so a protection may be constructed based mostly on the info. Aspect-view cameras are an more and more important device for offering clear, unbiased proof to guard drivers, confirm what actually occurred and resolve claims rapidly.
Widespread crash situations the place blame isn’t all the time clear
Giant truck drivers navigate highway challenges each day during which cameras could make a big distinction in relation to blame. Assume tight proper turns, impatient drivers at intersections, fast-moving automobiles weaving by way of freeway lanes — and extra. And whereas skilled operators know the right way to deal with these circumstances, that doesn’t all the time shield them or the enterprise when one thing goes flawed.
These are a few of the commonest situations the place crashes happen and blame will get difficult:
- Proper-hand squeeze accidents: As a truck prepares to show proper, particularly at an intersection, passenger automobiles typically misjudge the accessible house and attempt to go on the best. This ends in a sideswipe. These accidents are significantly widespread when drivers fail to account for the huge turning radius of an 80-foot automobile.
- Trailer tail swing throughout intersection turns: Even when executed appropriately, huge proper or left turns might consequence within the tail finish of vans momentarily crossing into adjoining lanes, creating threat if close by drivers aren’t paying consideration or attempt to beat the flip.
- Lane modifications on interstates: A automotive rushing up from behind can simply disappear right into a truck’s blind spot, particularly on massive highways with a number of lanes. Even when the motive force checks their mirrors, automobiles touring at 80 to 90 mph can shut the hole too rapidly for them to react.
These occasions unfold in seconds and infrequently in blind spots. Even when your driver adopted protocol, it’s not unusual for the trucking firm to be blamed first. With out video proof, disputes grow to be a matter of phrase towards phrase, and that uncertainty drives up the price of claims by way of prolonged authorized proceedings and inflated settlements. Murky legal responsibility circumstances are excessive threat and excessive price, putting stress on each carriers and policyholders to search out higher methods to confirm and defend the info.
Actual-world instance: When video made the distinction
In a latest incident, an unbiased single-unit owner-operator discovered himself in a well-known however irritating scenario — one other driver tried to squeeze into the entrance proper lane of his truck, leading to a minor sideswipe. Happily, the motive force had put in a fundamental three-camera system on his truck, with protection on either side and the entrance. He captured your complete incident on video.
When regulation enforcement arrived, the truck driver merely performed the footage from his SD card. It clearly confirmed the opposite driver was at fault and that there was little, if any, contact between the automobiles. Primarily based on that proof, the officer issued the quotation to the opposite driver. The declare for bodily injury and bodily damage was denied.
When requested why he put in cameras, the motive force didn’t hesitate: “It was simply widespread sense.” With over 20 years behind the wheel, he’d seen too many conditions the place “different drivers do loopy issues round vans,” and with fixed lawyer adverts focusing on trucking firms, he knew it was solely a matter of time. He didn’t let price stand in the best way, both — he selected three $50 items and enormous SD reminiscence playing cards for full aspect and entrance protection. In his phrases, it was “definitely payback.”
Greatest practices for utilizing side-view cameras
Mounted on either side of the truck, side-view cameras present visibility into merge zones, turning paths and adjoining lanes. When paired with sprint cams, they provide close to 360-degree views and pictures to assist defend drivers and resolve claims sooner. In some circumstances, drivers have even proven regulation enforcement video footage on the accident scene to make clear the info and keep away from pointless citations.
To maximise the worth of your funding, listed below are key greatest practices for choosing, putting in and utilizing side-view cameras:
- Set up on either side: To seize turning and merging occasions precisely, you want protection on each the left and proper sides of the automobile.
- Pair with front-facing cameras: Aspect-view cameras are useful, however they’re handiest when paired with a front-facing digital camera — which is a necessary, preliminary installment — to offer full context.
- Account for trailer swaps: In case your fleet ceaselessly modifications trailers, mount cameras on the tractor — not the trailer — to make sure constant protection. Including a rear digital camera might also be a good suggestion for fleets that hold trailers hooked up (like some shifting and storage firms).
- Go for cloud-connected methods: Some methods use onboard SD playing cards, whereas others provide cloud-based entry. Cloud-connected methods can present real-time footage on the scene and cut back the chance of knowledge loss.
- Know your vendor: Search for trusted suppliers who provide commercial-grade methods, cellular entry and integration with different fleet administration instruments.
- Use footage for greater than claims: Video footage isn’t only for accidents. It will probably aid you coach drivers, establish close to misses and enhance security practices throughout your fleet.
Management your claims, regardless of who’s at fault
Including side-view cameras isn’t only a tech improve — it’s a wise threat administration transfer. The fee is commonly far outweighed by the financial savings in claims decision, authorized charges and status safety. Even when your driver is at fault, clear video proof permits you to assess the scenario rapidly, take accountability and settle the declare in a means that avoids pointless disputes and drawn-out litigation.
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By Dewayne Reeder
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