Ditchmen • NUCA of Florida Ditchmen • April 2017 | Page 29

HOW’S MY DRIVING? If that question had you running out of the room instead of running to your computer, chances are you are not utilizing a fleet management program of some sort to help monitor your fleet. What am I referring to? Fleet Management Systems (FMS) or more commonly known as Telematics, is a way for a company to capture real-time data for a variety of different risks companies with fleets face on a day to day basis. (maintenanc e of vehicles, fuel usage, most efficient routes, hard braking, excessive speed, etc..) What was once considered the exception is fast becoming the norm when discussing “best in class” fleet management practices. The increased adoption of some form of FMS has grown tremendously over the past few years as the evolution of telematics and how it can help controls costs has become increasingly more attractive to businesses and has helped to warrant the cost associated with purchasing an FMS. One of the most impactful uses of an FMS that businesses see, is when it comes to reducing fleet claims and controlling their insurance costs. National commercial auto loss ratios are some of the highest out there when compared to how other lines have performed. (general liability, work comp, etc…) This can be attributed to a couple of different variables and includes: accidents, aggressive underpricing in years past, increased cost to repair vehicles due to advancements in vehicle technology such as back up cameras, sensors in bumpers, as well others. Moving forward, it may not be a question of “do I get a credit for having these systems in place”, but rather will a carrier even consider quoting if I don’t? Not having an FMS in place may reduce your company’s attractiveness in the marketplace and may affect how competitive carriers are willing to be. Having an FMS system in place may also mitigate increases in premium from accidents. Having the info to know the driver was not speeding or being able to pullup a driver report car to illustrate safe operating practices, may be the difference between non- renewing an account or not. If your company is already utilizing some form of Telematics, it is important to know what you are getting and how to maximize the program you are already paying for. We work with our clients to vet the various companies out there and communicate to our clients what they should look for that will help maximize their program and have them viewed in the most favorable light possible when carriers are determining whether or not to provide a commercial auto quote. by Mark A. Grimaldi, Vice President, Bateman, Gordon & Sands, Inc. • • • APRIL 2017 • DITCHMEN 29