Are Truck Driver Facing Cameras Necessary?

April 22, 2024 – Paul Hammack

Are Truck Driver Facing Cameras Necessary? | Call 864 326 - 3333

Truck driver-facing cameras are a necessary part of driver safety and regulatory compliance. Unlike dash cams that capture the activity of the road and other drivers, driver-facing cameras monitor trucker behavior in one of two ways; they can record continuously or only when specific incidents occur, including weaving, drowsiness, or sudden stops.

From the truck driver’s point of view, inward-facing cameras can feel invasive and intrusive. Truck drivers might perceive this constant monitoring as doubt or distrust. However, these cameras represent accountability from a safety perspective and can add an extra layer of protection against negligent driver behavior.

Understand What Truck Driver-Facing Cameras Really Do

While truck drivers might balk at the idea of being recorded for any length of their in-cab time, they should also understand that not all of these cameras record traditional video.

According to Fleet Owner, an online and print magazine for fleet owners and trucking industry executives, some camera models have software that records only eye and head movement. Use of this camera type can help combat the following dangerous driver behaviors:

  • Fatigue
  • Intoxication
  • Distraction

While driver comfort is an important factor, and comfort can promote safe behaviors, we cannot and should not overlook the safety of others sharing the road with large trucks. We should also inform truckers of the benefits of an inward-facing camera for them with its ability to reduce driver liability. Additional driver benefits include making driver coaching and distraction avoidance readily available.

Commonly Reported Trucking Violations

The primary purpose of driver-facing cameras is safety. By monitoring driver action, activity, and hours of service, camera technology can help create the safer roads passenger vehicle and truck drivers require. Per a 2020 report from Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the frequently reported driver violations are:

  • Following too closely
  • Lane restriction violation
  • Exceeding allowable driving hours
  • Disobeying traffic signs and signals
  • Speeding or driving too fast for conditions

Truck drivers might curtail many of these behaviors with the use of driver-facing cameras. Their goal is to notice any harmful actions on the road and alert drivers before collisions occur.

Driver-Facing Cameras Also Benefit Drivers Injured in Truck Collisions

When you are involved in a truck accident, compelling the insurance company to settle your case or being awarded a judgment in court will depend on the evidence preserved and presented on your behalf. Immediately after taking on your case, the Hammack Law Firm team will send a preservation letter requesting all video and other evidence be collected and held for litigation. Truck accident cases our Hammack Law Firm handles include:

  • Trucking company negligence cases, such as those involving poor vehicle maintenance, improperly loaded cargo, inadequate driver training measures, and encouraging hours-of-service violations
  • Driver error cases, such as those involving distracted driving, driving under the influence, speeding, driving too fast for conditions, and failing to notice road hazards

The evidence file we create for you will include your crash report, witness statements, and other evidence of negligence. Adding footage from driver-facing cameras and other onboard recording devices can further establish liability and prove your right to financial recovery. Truck accident cases must be handled differently than standard car wreck cases.

Damages You Could Recover After a Truck Accident

Because a collision between a large truck and a smaller vehicle often causes catastrophic injuries, it can also leave you with mounting medical bills. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work for any length of time, you could also lose your regular source of income. When our team represents you, we seek the following types of recoverable damages:

  • Medical treatment
  • Lost income
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Funeral expenses

Our truck accident team fights for justice for all accident victims we represent. If the at-fault party’s insurance company does not agree to a fair financial settlement, we do not hesitate to file a lawsuit and advocate for you in court.

Fighting for the Compensation You Need

Dealing with the insurance company that represents the truck driver or their employer can be intimidating and overwhelming. Our team has helped previous clients injured in truck accidents collect millions of dollars in compensation. When we take on your case, we treat you with understanding and respect — just like we treat our own friends and family.

Throughout the negotiation process, we make sure you are not distracted by a speedy offer that is made too early to know the true value of the accident to be recovered. We also make sure to file your case on time and include every available piece of evidence. Further, our Client Bill of Rights policy ensures you get the one-on-one attention you expect from a small firm and the experience and results you expect from a big firm.

Our Truck Accident Lawyer Is on Your Side

At Hammack Law Firm, we understand the safety benefits that truck driver-facing cameras provide. We are passionate supporters of the clients we represent, as well as increased public safety policies for trucking and insurance companies. Our firm fights to make South Carolina roads safer every day.

If you were involved in a truck accident in South Carolina or Georgia, contact one of our team members at (864) 326-3333(864) 326-3333 today to schedule a free consultation to learn more about your potential options.

Questions or Schedule An Appointment? Call Us:

(864) 326-3333

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