Auto accidents can be dangerous and expensive. In fact, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of work-related deaths in the United States. So it’s no surprise that companies that operate large fleets of vehicles, from large semi-trucks to smaller vans, are always looking for ways to improve fleet safety and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Two key tools in supporting these goals are dashboard cameras and properly maintained driver qualification (DQ) files. Installing dashboard cameras in company vehicles can help keep employees safe and decrease insurance claims costs, while DQ files are vital for regulatory compliance and ensuring only qualified drivers are behind the wheel. Together, these strategies offer a comprehensive approach to fleet safety and efficiency.
The role of dashboard cameras in fleet safety
Many companies sell cameras, which are installed on different parts of the vehicle. Rear- and front-facing dash cameras are most commonly used, but there are also options for interior driver-facing cameras. Cameras can be battery-powered or powered by the vehicle’s electrical system.
When selecting a dash camera system, it’s important to pick one that provides footage in high enough quality to see facial features or license plates. It’s also important to check how the camera’s footage is stored and for how long.
Dashboard cameras can be very beneficial for companies. One reason many organizations use dash cams is to provide an objective record of what happened if an accident occurred. Having a dash cam often eliminates the he-said-she-said aspect of many accidents. The camera can clearly show important facts like who had the right-of-way. This can go a long way in defending a driver and can reduce fraudulent injury or accident set-up claims.
Dash cams are also useful for fleet managers to monitor drivers and identify those who may need extra training or discipline. A periodic review of footage from vehicle cameras can help managers improve their drivers’ safety behind the wheel. This proactive monitoring contributes to a culture of safety and accountability.
DQ files and regulatory compliance
Organizations regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) are required to maintain DQ files for all their drivers. Having qualified drivers on the road is extremely important, especially because large trucks and vans can be challenging to drive.
The DOT will impose fines on any company that’s found not to be maintaining DQ files properly, so this is another reason to develop a good system for organizing these files. There are different software options available for managing DQ files, which may be useful, especially for larger motor carriers.
What’s required in a DQ file?
- Driver’s application for employment
- Inquiry to previous employers, requesting driving records for last three years
- Annual inquiry and review of driving record
- Annual driver’s certification of violations
- Annual performance review
- Driver’s road test and certificate or the equivalent to the road test
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- If granted, a waiver of physical disqualification for a person with a loss or impairment of limbs
These files should be kept for the entire time a driver is employed by the organization and for at least three years after. Our Safety Summary includes more in-depth information about DQ files and steps for ensuring a well-organized system.
Combining the technological advantages of dashboard cameras with well-maintained DQ files provides fleet-operating companies with a dual advantage: improved safety and ensured compliance. Organizations that invest in these tools are better positioned to protect their drivers, reduce risk, and maintain high operational standards. In an industry where safety, reliability, and compliance go hand in hand, taking these steps not only reduces costs and legal exposure but also goes a long way towards keeping employees and other drivers safe on the road.
