Professional driver safety requires a 360º approach that prioritizes ongoing training, cutting-edge technology and driver well-being. Werner focuses on all three of these important safety aspects, helping significantly increase our professional drivers’ ability to navigate the road safely and respond effectively in the moment.
For the second part of our Driving Change series, we take a deeper look at the role of technology solutions in improving driver safety and experience.
Better Outcomes via a Technology Approach
Onboard truck technology has revolutionized driver safety by introducing various features and functionalities to help prevent accidents, enhance situational awareness, and assist professional drivers in their daily operations. With the integration of advanced sensors, cameras, and intelligent algorithms, these technologies play a crucial role in mitigating risks and ensuring the well-being of professional drivers on the road.
Werner continues investing in technology solutions for our fleet, like collision mitigation systems (CMS). These CMS systems use cameras and radar technologies to monitor driver activity and the area around the vehicle for possible hazards.
These preventative features and warning systems help drivers maintain safer driving practices by assisting with driving operations and alerting drivers of potential danger while giving them time to react. Such features include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control measures the distance between a truck and the vehicle in front of it to calculate the speed needed to maintain a safe distance. This speed is then automatically set in the vehicle’s cruise control.
- Lane Departure Warning alerts drivers with audio and visual cues when the vehicle crosses a lane divider without using a turn signal, whether the action is taken intentionally or due to drift.
- Automated Emergency Braking (AEB) uses system sensors to detect slow or stationary objects in front of a vehicle. It then calculates time, distance, and speed to immediately dispense the appropriate action: driver warning, partial braking, or full braking.
- Forward-facing cameras capture video when an event triggers the AEB system. Video automatically begins recording throughout the triggered event to capture an accurate picture of events. This footage is automatically uploaded to the cloud so authorized associates can access it and review it to further coach drivers if needed.
- Electronic stability control utilizes sensors to monitor the truck’s movements and stability. Suppose the system detects a loss of control, such as skidding or a potential rollover. In that case, it can apply individual brakes and reduce engine power to help the driver regain vehicle control.
In addition to onboard notification and mitigation systems, Werner professional drivers have access to the Drive Werner Pro app, which is designed to assist with non-driving related tasks such as managing truck stop fees, submitting receipts for reimbursements, obtaining route information and one-stop notifications.
At Werner, we are committed to improving driver safety and satisfaction by implementing strategies and solutions to ensure these goals are met. Incorporating new technology and equipment can make the job more manageable and safer.
—
This is part two of our “Driving Change” series about the many steps we take to support and encourage a safer road for all drivers. If you missed the first article in this series, click here. For the third article, click here.
