Problem with driver-facing cameras is increasingly concerns truckers
A new study has found that drivers disapprove of surveillance cameras placed in the cab and pointed at them.
This is one of the main findings of the report “Challenges and Opportunities for Driver-Facing Cameras” released on Wednesday, April 12 by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI).
“Driver-facing cameras are an important safety tool for carriers, but they need to be carefully managed to use the benefits for drivers, insurers and attorneys,” said Jerry Sigmon Jr., Chief Operating Officer of Cargo Transporters Inc. “The ATRI study, which focuses on in-cab cameras, represents an important blueprint for both carriers using this technology and those still considering making this investment.”
About 2100 drivers took part in the survey, according to ATRI.
When drivers were asked to rate their attitude towards cameras pointed at them on a scale of 0 to 10, the drivers scored only 2.24.
Female truckers who participated in the survey rated driver-facing cameras 1.98 on a scale of 0 to 10.
ATRI said the low scores were partly due to limited experience, confusion about the variety of camera systems, unclear carrier policies, and strong privacy concerns.
On the contrary, drivers using road-facing cameras gave them a much higher approval rating: 8.19 on a scale of 0 to 10.
Here is what the respondents suggested to improve the rating:
- 18.8% – records should only be viewed after an accident
- 16.7% – cameras should be turned off if the truck is not moving
- 13.7% – full driver control
- 11.6% – less nagging
- 9.1% – сameras should only trigger security related events
- 7.3% – corresponding salary increase
- 7% – full access for the driver
- 6.7% – stop using cameras as punishment
- 5.8% – only for drivers on probation
- 3.3% – better communication
Some comments from drivers were also included in the study. Among them:
- “With the camera facing the driver, it feels like you’re being watched 100% of the time. I know it’s not, but it gives the impression. The company needs to find a way to convince the driver that they don’t want to punish the driver for every little thing they can do wrong.” – truck driver engaged in LTL transportation.
- “Driver-facing cameras are actually a threat to my safety and the safety of others because I feel stressed and nervous about being watched even though I’m not doing anything wrong.” – truck driver engaged in LTL transportation.
- “When I was a company driver, my company installed cameras facing the driver. It pushed my stress levels to the limit and made me the most unsafe driver I have ever been. It also motivated me to buy my own truck.” – specialized driver.
- “Women drivers were sexually harassed by employees who had access to cameras facing the driver. For a long distance driver, this is no different than if your employer had a camera pointed at you in your personal vehicle, at your workplace, in your living room, your bedroom, your kitchen, and even your bathroom.” – truck driver engaged in FTL transportation.
- “It’s hard to accept a camera pointed at you in your work/living space. It’s not like working in an office where cameras can be all over the building. The truck is our workspace, but also our personal space, just like our home. The company may own the truck, but that doesn’t give them the right to look at me through the camera. Landlords can’t install cameras in their homes to make sure tenants follow the rules.” – intermodal transport driver.
