Risk managers for small and mid-sized trucking fleets say they are data rich but starved for ways to best use the information generated from truck telematics and other advanced technology tools, according to recent survey data from Northland Insurance.The company surveyed 300 managers for its Risk Managers Safety Guide, which identifies challenges and best practices for improving fleet safety. Among the findings, Northland said companies continue to invest in data-driven tools that can help improve fleet safety, but that risk managers often have trouble channeling the insights from those tools into action.For example, although most managers said they feel confident using telematics data to improve safety, nearly half of those at mid-sized fleets (49%) and 43% of those working with small fleets said they have difficulty translating telematics insights—on measures such as speeding and other driver behaviors—into actionable coaching or safety improvements.Trust and training also figured prominently in the survey. Other findings showed that:45% of small fleets and 42% of mid-sized fleets said they have too much data without clear direction on how to use it.While more than 95% of drivers said they are open to safety initiatives, nearly half of fleet managers said drivers are hesitant to trust telematics data.Nearly two-thirds (61%) of small fleets said recognition programs are most effective for building a safety culture. Conversely, just 38% said they think drivers are motivated to adopt safer behaviors based on penalties or disciplinary action.In-person training was cited as the most effective safety tool, underscoring the importance of driver…
