Fleets are embracing advanced safety technologies, investing in late-model equipment and focusing on maintenance as key strategies to improve safety, reduce risk and limit liability.
Cutting-Edge Safety Technologies
The use of in-cab safety technologies is becoming more common among fleets, and every fleet participating in the National Private Truck Council’s (NPTC) 2024 Benchmarking Report said they are using some type of onboard safety technology. Among respondents, 82% are using lane departure warning systems and adaptive cruise control, while 80% reported that they are using collision warning systems and in-cab cameras.
Other in-cab solutions, such as power steering, disc brakes and automatic transmissions, have made driving less physically demanding for drivers, which can help reduce fatigue and increase alertness. Plus, telematics technology can provide information on driving behaviors that can be used to coach employees to become safer drivers and offer valuable insights to improve vehicle maintenance.
Adding onboard safety technology is a customer decision, but Penske’s leasing team can offer input and help customers find the right safety solutions for their fleets and drivers. “Manufacturers are trying to sell cars based on the features and benefits. With trucks, you usually have to specify which safety features you want,” said Chuck Pagesy, director of safety for Penske Truck Leasing.
Benefits of Late-Model Equipment
Late-model equipment is increasingly equipped with advanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring — all of which can greatly reduce the risk of serious accidents. Many newer models also feature technology that helps drivers detect hazards, enhancing overall safety.
Newer leased vehicles are also less prone to breakdowns or major repairs, reducing the risk of mechanical failures and roadside emergencies. This not only helps prevent hazards for other drivers but also minimizes the chances of drivers being stranded in inconvenient or unsafe locations.
Effective Maintenance
Nearly every component on a Class 8 truck is tied to safety in some way. Worn or underinflated tires can lead to blowouts, inoperable or missing lights reduce visibility, and poorly maintained brake systems can reduce the braking capacity.
Proper maintenance is essential to safe vehicle operation, and Penske Truck Leasing uses technology, data and analytics to proactively address potential issues and is tapping into artificial intelligence to predict failures and when they will occur. Getting ahead of issues helps technicians prevent mechanical failures that could lead to safety incidents.
Penske’s Dynamic PM® is a unique, data-driven, preventive maintenance service that analyzes specifications and trends unique to each fleet to understand when specific components may fail, allowing technicians to get ahead of issues.