How Mobile Computers can Help Decrease Driver Distraction
Hello Everyone! We’re back after a nice holiday break. Best wishes to all for the New Year! For our first post of 2010 we’ve put together a complimentary white paper that explores the ramifications of distracted driving and talks about some technology solutions that help keep drivers safe.
It’s probably not a surprise that talking on a cell phone increases the risk of vehicle accidents by 3 times, and that the risk increases by 23 times when texting while driving. With driver distraction being a leading cause of vehicle accidents, selecting an in-vehicle computer for your fleet that lets you control when drivers interact with the device is important to your fleet’s safety, as well as your bottom line. Consider this: the price of one fleet vehicle accident when all costs are factored in, such as loss of use, liability, workers’ comp, and other indirect expenses, is estimated at $10,000.
So what do you need to look for in a mobile computer to minimize driver interaction while the vehicle is in motion? Here are a few suggestions:
Limited Functionality When in Motion
Look for mobile computers that let you set parameters around their use. You can customize these in-vehicle computers so the screen is only visible when the vehicle has stopped, suspend messaging capabilities when the vehicle is in motion, or only offer very limited functionality when in motion.
Customizable Navigation Prompts
There are times when support from the computer is necessary when driving, such as when the driver needs navigational help. Look for mobile computers that let drivers only access audio turn-by-turn prompts when the vehicle is in motion, or give drivers the ability to view the onscreen map but disable interaction with the settings.
Integrated Voice Calling
Choose a mobile computer that offers completely integrated voice communications. This feature mimics a cell phone, but gives you full control of when or if the calling capabilities are used when the vehicle is in motion—from texting and calling to receiving calls. You can also limit who your drivers are able to call.
Consolidating Job Tasks
Traditionally, fleet drivers have had to juggle a cell phone for voice and text messaging, a paper map for navigation, and a clipboard to record job details. Making these in-vehicle tasks available on one computing device limits the number of onboard distractions and lets you control when they are used.
Ease of Use
Commercial mobile devices, such as smartphones, are light-weight and portable, but their small buttons and screens make it difficult for fleet drivers to quickly use. A mobile computer intended for fleets, designed for ease-of-use, and backed by comprehensive training will take into account limited vehicle real-estate, while still being large enough for easy viewing and data entry.
