Centrad has recently launched its driver welfare camera, an AI-powered camera solution that is capable of detecting signs of fatigue, such as eyes drooping or yawning, before they lead to critical incidents.
The technology also provides alerts to both the driver and fleet managers to encourage real-time proactive interventions.
Managing direct Geoff Cross believes that AI-powered camera solutions will reduce the number of avoidable, often tragic incidents, on UK roads each year caused by fatigue.
Driving in the dark poses a distinct set of challenges, as heavy goods vehicles (HGV) drivers face reduced visibility and a heightened reliance on peripheral awareness when behind the wheel at night.
With fatigue impairing a driver’s ability to respond quickly and accurately under low-light conditions, this combination can prove potentially fatal. As winter intensifies, and the days shorten, the risk to commercial vehicle drivers, pedestrians and general road users will only increase.
Cross said: “Our bodies instinctively associate darkness with sleep, making nighttime or early morning driving inherently challenging at the best of times. This is why road accident statistics are actually higher at night than during daytime hours, despite there being less traffic presence.
“Unfortunately, four in ten tiredness-related crashes involve someone driving a commercial vehicle. So, for HGV drivers, who work long, intensive hours often through the night, the risk of them being involved in fatigue-related incidents is considerably higher than your average motorist.
“Driving an HGV is a challenging job and due to the pressure of meeting stringent delivery times, it’s all too easy to push through when fatigue strikes rather than taking necessary breaks, beyond what’s mandatory. Which is why it is fundamental operators ensure that not only are their drivers aware of the signs and risks of fatigue, but that they are equipped with the right tools and support needed to combat its risks effectively. Unfortunately, training alone just isn’t enough to prevent these incidents from occurring.”
While police statistics indicate that fatigue contributes to approximately 4% of fatal road crashes and 2% of all collisions in Britain, the true numbers are likely higher due to challenges in detecting and reporting fatigue as a direct cause.
Worldwide, it is estimated that between 10 and 20% of all crashes are caused by driver fatigue.
To mitigate these statistics this winter, Cross has urged hauliers to adopt preventive measures to protect their drivers over the coming months, believing it essential for the industry as a whole to utilise technology such as AI-powered driver welfare cameras, which can detect signs of drowsiness and alert drivers in real-time.
Cross added: “AI gives hauliers the opportunity to prevent issues before they arise, rather than merely reacting to them after the fact before it’s too late.
“As such, the potential of AI is staggering, and we've only just scratched the surface of finding out its true capabilities. From a driver welfare and road safety standpoint however the benefits are there to be seen.
“As winter arrives and nights grow longer, the challenges of long-haul driving become even more pronounced. With peak season approaching, stress levels rise, and workloads increase, making it essential to implement impactful measures, such as AI-powered camera technology, to provide drivers with complete confidence while they’re on the road.”
