Professional drivers see clear benefits to fleet adoption of in-cab technology, overcoming concerns on privacy.
97% of drivers be willing to overlook privacy concerns if footage could prove they were not at fault after a collision
The new UK survey from Geotab reveals while nearly nine out of 10 (87%) of UK employees are concerned about the use of in-cab cameras, 97% would be willing to overlook those concerns if footage could prove they were not at fault after a collision.
The study also found that 91% of professional drivers would be more comfortable with instant audio coaching. This coaching would be based on an immediate, AI-powered analysis of in-cab video, instead of inward-facing video being stored for later review.
The UK survey is part of a wider study conducted by Geotab of over 3,500 professional drivers across seven European countries, uncovering a fundamental ‘privacy vs. protection’ dilemma at the heart of driver attitudes.
The study also revealed an urgent ‘education gap’ that UK fleet managers must close. Driver concerns are widespread and varied, with no single issue forming a majority. Worries about footage being used out of context (34%), being used against them for disciplinary action (34%) and data security (32%) are all significant.
This illustrates the varied barriers to the adoption of video cameras, suggesting further education and information is required regarding their use.
Edward Kulperger, senior vice president, EMEA at Geotab, said the research showed that the narrative that drivers in the UK are against technology is outdated.
“When drivers understand the value of the coaching and that it’s designed to protect and develop them, rather than penalise them, acceptance rises dramatically.”
He added that the conflict between privacy and protection suggests that drivers are not rejecting the technology, but are instead asking for clarity, fairness and practical value from the systems designed to support them.
“The industry has an opportunity to improve education on how these systems enhance driver safety and security, which will build a culture of trust and lead to safer roads for everyone,” Kulperger added.
The UK transport sector continues to battle against driver shortages and operational pressures, with fleets turning to supportive technology, such as AI-powered coaching, to enhance performance, confidence and safety.
The latest data from Geotab’s research underscores that UK drivers are not only open to this approach, but they are encouraging it. Across Europe, the UK also had the highest overall percentage of drivers (35%) who believed that dashcam footage for coaching is a valuable tool for both professional development and safety.
The survey confirms earlier findings from Geotab’s driver research, noting nearly 70% of drivers in Europe support adopting technology to enhance their performance. This new data notes that a combined 67% are positive about using footage for coaching, provided it is constructive and collaborative, with fewer than 1% of respondents stating they see no benefit at all in having a dashcam.
The study also looked at the biggest benefits from in-cab technology and found drivers cited improving their own standards through coaching, increased security and proving they were not at fault in a collision, further underlining their dual interest in both professional development and personal protection.