What Every Employer Needs To Know About Dash Cams
Electronic logging devices, commonly called ELDs or dash cams, are becoming increasingly popular among business owners, but many are still unclear about what they do and how they work. Here's what you need to know about dash cams in your business.
What Do Dash Cams Track?
An ELD tracks a vehicle's movement, speed, and location. It monitors both the driver's activity and the vehicle's performance. With an ELD, you can easily keep track of your drivers' hours of service, as well as their routes and fuel consumption.
Is an ELD a GPS?
No, an ELD is not a global positioning system or GPS. While it uses GPS technology to provide data on the vehicle's location, it does not provide navigation assistance like a GPS.
What Are the Most Commonly Cited ELD Violations?
The Department of Transportation (DOT) has strict rules on the hours a driver can operate and how to log those hours. Violations can result in hefty fines. Dash cams help identify any irregularities in a driver's record-keeping. The most commonly cited violations include the following:
- Failure to record accurate hours
- Failure to update logbooks when out of service
- Failure to abide by DOT Hours of Service regulations
Other common violations include false logging, falsifying documents related to compliance, and failing to turn on the ELD when required by law or their employer.
What Are the Benefits of Dash Cams for Employers?
Dash cams offer several advantages for employers, including:
- Help you stay compliant with the law
- Improve driver safety
- Improve driver accountability
- Reduce paperwork
- Keep you informed of any violations
- Help you monitor driver activity
Installing an ELD in your vehicles is a great way to stay compliant. Dash cams help you ensure your drivers follow DOT regulations as well as your expectations.
Can Dash Cams Be Hacked?
Unfortunately, it is possible for malicious actors to hack into dash cams and access sensitive information such as driver records or routes traveled by vehicles. However, most reputable ELDS providers have measures in place, such as encryption protocols, to protect against such attacks. Additionally, federal regulations require that all ELD systems be equipped with tamper-proof hardware that prevents unauthorized access or manipulation of stored data.
Dash cams offer numerous benefits for businesses that want to ensure their drivers comply with the law. The key is understanding how these devices work, so you can make informed decisions about whether or not using dash cams is right for your business.
Contact a local dash cam service to learn more.
