How Fleet Operators Improve Safety with Telematics
Discover how fleet operators improve road safety using telematics, smart tech, and innovative partnerships to reduce accidents and save lives.
Fleet management is undergoing a seismic transformation, driven by advancements in telematics, innovative public-private partnerships, and a renewed focus on safety-first strategies. A recent conversation with Peter Goldwer, Executive Director of Together for Safer Roads (TSR), sheds light on how technology, collaboration, and human-centric solutions are shaping safer roads globally. TSR’s work spans from local initiatives in cities like New York to global projects in Nigeria, all with the aim of achieving "Vision Zero" - the elimination of traffic fatalities.
This article explores key insights into how fleet operators and decision-makers can leverage telematics and other cutting-edge strategies to improve safety, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency.
Understanding the Role of Together for Safer Roads (TSR)
TSR is a global non-governmental organisation (NGO) founded in 2014 alongside the United Nations' first Decade of Action for Road Safety. Its mission is to unite private sector fleets, governments, and technology providers to create safer roads. What sets TSR apart is its unique approach: leveraging insights and expertise from some of the world’s largest fleets, technology providers, and municipalities to develop scalable, data-driven solutions.
Peter Goldwer described TSR as a bridge between moral and market imperatives. "How do we do good, but also deliver ROI?" he explained, noting that safer fleets not only save lives but also drive financial benefits, such as reduced insurance premiums, lower maintenance costs, and higher employee retention.
The Impact of Telematics on Fleet Safety
Telematics has become a cornerstone of modern fleet safety, providing granular data to monitor and improve driver performance. From in-cab cameras to blind spot detection and real-time alerts, telematics solutions help streamline operations while mitigating risks. However, implementing these technologies effectively requires careful consideration of driver privacy, training, and messaging.
Addressing Challenges in Telematics Adoption
A significant barrier to telematics adoption is the tension between safety and privacy. Many drivers fear in-cab cameras will lead to micromanagement or invasion of privacy. To overcome this, Peter emphasised the importance of framing these tools as supportive rather than punitive.
For example:
- Cameras can exonerate drivers in cases of accidents, proving they followed safety protocols.
- Dashcam footage has been shown to help 60% of drivers improve their habits after reviewing their performances, according to a recent study.
- Proper introduction and training can shift driver perceptions, making telematics a part of a broader culture of safety.
Designing Safer Fleets: The Cab for All Initiative
One of TSR’s standout projects is the "Cab for All" initiative, focused on creating vehicle designs that cater to diverse driver demographics. With the number of female fleet drivers steadily increasing, TSR is collaborating with industry leaders to develop more ergonomic and inclusive designs. By redesigning vehicle cabs to account for factors like seat sizes, steering wheel distances, and control placements, fleets can ensure greater comfort, safety, and efficiency for all drivers.
This initiative highlights the importance of pairing technology with human-centric design to improve safety and productivity.
The Global Perspective: Fleet Safety Beyond Borders
Safety isn’t just a local concern - it’s a global priority. TSR partners with organisations such as UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research) to develop scalable solutions for fleets worldwide. A notable project is TSR’s work in Nigeria, where they are collaborating with public and private fleets to address safety challenges through training and technology.
TSR’s Focus Program is at the heart of these efforts. Designed for small to mid-sized fleets, this training initiative equips operators with the tools to create a culture of safety. It covers:
- Leadership development
- Training on safety policies and best practices
- Guidance on technology integration
The programme has been implemented in various locations, including New York, Texas, and now Nigeria, proving its adaptability across diverse contexts.
Tackling Blind Spots: The Direct Vision Standard
Another critical issue in fleet safety is driver visibility. Blind zones around large vehicles are a leading cause of accidents involving vulnerable road users. TSR’s response to this challenge includes the Direct Vision Leadership Council and the development of North America’s first Direct Vision Rating System. This five-star system allows fleets to evaluate their vehicles’ visibility and make informed decisions about upgrades or retrofits.
For poorly rated vehicles, aftermarket technologies such as cameras and sensors can significantly enhance safety. Over time, fleets can transition to vehicles designed with superior visibility, combining design improvements with technological advancements for maximum impact.
A Look Ahead: The Future of Safe Fleets
What does the next decade hold for fleet safety? Peter Goldwer envisions a future where cutting-edge technology and a culture of safety work hand in hand. The most successful fleets will:
- Embrace AI-powered telematics for personalised driver coaching and predictive analytics.
- Invest in human-centric designs that prioritise driver comfort and usability.
- Cultivate a strong safety culture, making safety a core organisational value.
Ultimately, achieving Vision Zero will require collaboration across industries, governments, and communities. While technology will play a pivotal role, the human factor - clear communication, training, and leadership - will remain the linchpin.
Key Takeaways
- Telematics as a Game-Changer: Tools like in-cab cameras and blind spot detection improve safety, but their success hinges on proper implementation and driver buy-in.
- Driver-Centric Design: Initiatives like the "Cab for All" are essential for fostering inclusivity and reducing ergonomic risks.
- Global Collaboration: From New York to Nigeria, partnerships between fleets, governments, and NGOs are key to scaling safety solutions.
- Direct Vision Matters: Blind spot reduction through better cab design and aftermarket technology saves lives and prevents crashes.
- Training Leads to Transformation: TSR’s Focus Program equips smaller fleets with the knowledge and tools to build a culture of safety.
- Technology Alone Isn’t Enough: Safety innovations must be paired with leadership, training, and a clear commitment to protecting drivers and road users.
Conclusion
The road to safer fleets is paved with collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to human-centred solutions. As TSR continues to lead the charge, fleets around the world are reaping the benefits of improved safety, enhanced efficiency, and reduced costs. Whether you’re managing a small fleet or overseeing operations for a multinational corporation, there’s no better time to embrace the potential of telematics and other safety innovations.
Together, we can move closer to Vision Zero and create roads that are safer for everyone.
Source: "Waste World - Episode 30: Road Safety with Peter Goldwasser, TSR" - WasteExpo, YouTube, Aug 18, 2025 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDn3ZHPnMU0
Use: Embedded for reference. Brief quotes used for commentary/review.