Brief Overview

  • The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) is seeking information from carriers to assess how in-cab cameras "positively impact safety and operational metrics," the organization announced on June 17.
  • ATRI said carriers can submit information through its online form, with a deadline of July 24. Its latest research project follows a 2022 study that collected data to better understand driver perceptions of the technology.
  • "The research will also examine specific strategies carriers and drivers use to manage in-vehicle data to improve safety outcomes," ATRI said, noting the research institute is affiliated with the American Trucking Associations.

In-Depth Insights

Carriers and trucking groups are divided on the use of in-cab cameras. However, in an April 2023 ATRI report, the organization noted that driver support may change over time and increases significantly when carriers emphasize preventive safety and educational measures.

Companies including J.B. Hunt Transport Services and C.R. England have adopted the technology to address distracted driving and other safety issues, including seat belt usage. In the case of J.B. Hunt, for example, the company noted a 20% reduction in claim costs for trucks equipped with the technology.

However, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) opposes in-cab cameras, citing privacy and fairness concerns.

In the 2023 report, ATRI noted that in-vehicle technology "is becoming increasingly common, with a focus on promoting safety," but most monitoring hardware is outward-facing rather than driver-facing. The report also cited privacy concerns as one reason drivers are worried about the use of interior cameras.

But now, ATRI says fleets are increasingly adopting in-cab monitoring systems alongside other core safety technologies.

The goal of ATRI's latest research project is to collect "before and after safety metrics to identify any statistical relationship between the deployment of in-cab monitoring systems and improvements in safety outcomes," the organization said.