Cameras have become a common part of daily life, and fleet operators are no different. Once used mainly for security in stores, onboard cameras are now essential tools in vehicles, helping keep fleets safe and efficient. The use of video telematics in fleets is growing fast, with the number of video units expected to more than double—from 6.1 million in 2024 to nearly 14 million by 2030.
Whether you manage a small group of vehicles or a large commercial fleet, these systems offer real-time information that helps protect your vehicles, improve driver safety, and reduce costs. Thomas McMillan, a commercial lines staff underwriter at Central Insurance, highlights how these tools are already changing the way fleets operate.
Fleet telematics apps work by combining data from vehicle sensors, GPS tracking, and onboard cameras to give managers a complete view of their fleet. These apps help spot unsafe driving habits early, schedule maintenance before problems occur, and provide clear, verifiable proof when incidents happen. McMillan points out that preventing accidents is cheaper and less stressful than dealing with them afterward. He says this not only lowers insurance claims but also helps keep premiums down.
Beyond safety, these systems help reduce fuel expenses, extend vehicle lifespan, and improve insurance options by documenting safe driving practices. Among the leading apps that McMillan recommends are Samsara, Geotab, Verizon Connect, Motive, and Powerfleet.
Samsara offers an all-in-one platform with live GPS tracking, AI-powered cameras, and alerts for risky driver behaviors like hard braking or distracted driving. Geotab provides customizable solutions focused on driver behavior, fuel efficiency, and engine health, and it ranked as the top vendor in ABI Research’s recent telematics assessment. Verizon Connect helps optimize routes, monitor compliance, and track driver performance, including geofencing features that notify managers when vehicles enter or leave specific areas. Motive uses AI to spot dangerous driving in real time and offers coaching tips while ensuring regulatory compliance. Powerfleet specializes in tracking mobile and stationary assets, providing hardware and software to help with safety, compliance, and performance.
These technologies track habits like speeding, sharp turns, and phone use, which can greatly improve safety when addressed. When accidents do happen, telematics provide timestamped data and video that speed up claims and reduce legal costs. This makes it easier for insurers to assess risk and can lead to better insurance rates. At the same time, by monitoring vehicle health and sending maintenance alerts, these systems help avoid breakdowns and keep fleets running smoothly.
McMillan emphasizes that beyond savings, telematics build a culture of safety by offering regular feedback and encouraging better driving habits. “When safety becomes part of your daily routine, it reduces risk and keeps things running without costly interruptions,” he says.
As commercial auto insurance rates increase, adopting fleet telematics makes more sense than ever. Not only do these tools help lower risks and costs, but they also support safer, more productive teams. McMillan adds that most people are comfortable using smartphone-based tools, making telematics easy to implement in daily work.
Partnering with an insurer who understands your business, like Central Insurance, can also make a big difference. Central offers support beyond just coverage, helping fleets improve their safety practices and meet challenges head-on. With the right telematics and a trusted insurance partner, fleet operators have powerful tools to protect their people, vehicles, and bottom line.