This submit is a part of a sequence sponsored by IAT Insurance coverage Group.

Lane-change incidents and sideswipe collisions are more and more widespread however hardly ever clear-cut.

Almost 75% of huge vehicles concerned in deadly 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 a minimum of 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 primarily based 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.

Frequent crash situations the place blame isn’t at all times clear

Massive truck drivers navigate street challenges each day wherein cameras could make a major distinction relating to blame. Suppose tight proper turns, impatient drivers at intersections, fast-moving automobiles weaving via freeway lanes — and extra. And whereas skilled operators know tips on how to deal with these situations, that doesn’t at all times shield them or the enterprise when one thing goes flawed.

These are a number of the most typical 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 area and attempt to go on the correct. This leads to a sideswipe. These accidents are notably widespread when drivers fail to account for the broad turning radius of an 80-foot automobile.
Trailer tail swing throughout intersection turns: Even when executed appropriately, broad proper or left turns might outcome within the tail finish of vehicles 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 driving 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 sometimes 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 change into a matter of phrase towards phrase, and that uncertainty drives up the price of claims via prolonged authorized proceedings and inflated settlements. Murky legal responsibility instances are excessive threat and excessive value, putting stress on each carriers and policyholders to seek out higher methods to confirm and defend the info.

Actual-world instance: When video made the distinction

In a current incident, an impartial 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. Fortuitously, the driving force had put in a primary three-camera system on his truck, with protection on either side and the entrance. He captured the complete incident on video.

When legislation 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. Based mostly 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 driving 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 vehicles,” and with fixed lawyer advertisements focusing on trucking firms, he knew it was solely a matter of time. He didn’t let value stand in the way in which, both — he selected three $50 items and enormous SD reminiscence playing cards for full facet and entrance protection. In his phrases, it was “actually a very good payback.”

Finest 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 photographs to assist defend drivers and resolve claims sooner. In some instances, drivers have even proven legislation 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 here are key finest 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 best when paired with a front-facing digicam — which is a vital, 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 digicam can also be a good suggestion for fleets that maintain trailers hooked up (like some shifting and storage firms).
Go for cloud-connected techniques: Some techniques use onboard SD playing cards, whereas others supply cloud-based entry. Cloud-connected techniques can present real-time footage on the scene and scale back the chance of knowledge loss.
Know your vendor: Search for trusted suppliers who supply commercial-grade techniques, cellular entry and integration with different fleet administration instruments.
Use footage for greater than claims: Video footage isn’t only for accidents. It will possibly assist 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 sensible threat administration transfer. The fee is usually far outweighed by the financial savings in claims decision, authorized charges and repute safety. Even when your driver is at fault, clear video proof lets you assess the scenario rapidly, take accountability and settle the declare in a approach that avoids pointless disputes and drawn-out litigation.

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By Dewayne Reeder