In 2022, almost 2,800 people lost their lives in Germany in over 2.4 million registered traffic accidents. These statistics often include accidents involving buses or trucks, which are more difficult to maneuver due to their size and blind spots. But with the help of intelligent systems, hopes are rising that in the not-too-distant future we will no longer have to mourn fatalities. By using artificial intelligence (AI), potential problems can be identified and preventive measures can be taken. Jürgen Schachner, Regional Sales Director DACH at Samsara, sees great potential in AI to make road traffic safer.

Tackling dangerous habits before they get serious

Nowadays, professional drivers have access to a wide range of driver assistance systems, from emergency braking functions and fatigue sensors to blind spot warnings. Nevertheless, the road transport and logistics sector remains fraught with risks, and often the assistants only take effect when it is already too late: the dangerous situation or negative driving behavior has already occurred. With the help of the AI telematics of the Samsara Connected Operations solution, this can be avoided in the future. This is where AI-based technology, such as our Proactive Driver Coaching Solution, comes in, offering new ways to support drivers to preventively promote safe driving behavior. After all, in addition to direct accident avoidance, the most important thing is for drivers to sustainably discontinue dangerous habits and negative behavior.

AI dashcams are seen as the seatbelts of the future

Our AI dashcams, which are directed outward or optionally into the vehicle interior, are particularly helpful. They analyze driving behavior in real time, enabling preventive avoidance of risky behavior. The AI is even able to detect distracting habits such as using a cell phone while driving. The inward-facing cameras analyze the drivers behavior exclusively in dangerous situations, and personal data such as license plates and faces are automatically pixelated. But such instances are not recorded directly: Drivers initially receive several notifications when such behavior is detected and have the opportunity to correct it on their own. Only after repeated misbehavior is an "event" created, which can later be analyzed and discussed with supervisors or trainers.

AI to increase the efficiency of operations 

In addition to avoiding accidents and improving driving behavior, such systems offer the advantage of protecting drivers from unjustified complaints from other road users. Furthermore, AI enables the collection of data to analyze operations and make them more efficient. By connecting directly to the cloud, video footage can be sent to authorities quickly and easily, along with other evidence. By reducing bureaucracy, employee satisfaction increases, making this economically important career field more attractive.

Thanks to AI and advanced technologies such as AI dashcams, the chances of making road traffic safer are good. Proactive support for drivers and preventive detection of dangerous behavior help to avoid accidents and improve road safety. At the same time, data protection is ensured and operational processes can be made more efficient. The long-term goal should be to further reduce the number of accident victims and make roads safer for all road users