Central Insurance Blog

Technology is reshaping fleet management, but the evolution is not without growing pains. A recent industry report reveals that while 72% of fleets utilize dedicated maintenance software, many still rely on multiple platforms and manual processes, resulting in integration gaps and administrative overload.

Between electronic logging devices (ELDs),telematics, dash cameras, and compliance tools, drivers are being asked to manage more digital systems on the job than ever. Though these tools promise better safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance, introducing too many technologies too quickly can leave your employees frustrated, overwhelmed, and resistant.

“Especially for experienced drivers, these new systems can feel intrusive,” explains Eddie Dreyer, commercial lines staff underwriter at Central Insurance. “They’ve been doing the job a certain way for years and doing it well. Suddenly, they’re being asked to change everything.”

So how can fleet managers strike a balance between leveraging technology and not overwhelming their employees? 

Part of the challenge comes down to rollout. Fleets often introduce multiple truck technology tools at once, but without the right communication, training, or sequencing, drivers can easily feel like they’re being watched rather than supported.

“My advice is to start with one, then build from there,” Dreyer says. “Introduce one system, help everyone get comfortable, and then add another. That’s how you avoid the overload.”

In the article below, Dreyer provides additional guidance on implementing fleet technology without overwhelming drivers. Read on to learn how you can apply these practices within your organization.

Understanding the Importance of Truck Technology for Compliance

Electronic logging devices (ELDs) are designed to simplify compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules. This ELD mandate requires most commercial motor vehicle operators to use approved electronic devices to automatically record hours of service.

While the regulation is relatively recent, the idea dates back decades. The FMCSA first began exploring electronic logging technology in the early 2000s, recognizing its potential to improve safety and accuracy across the industry. At the time, the agency believed that an automated system for tracking driving hours would help prevent overwork and encourage healthier driver routines.

The motivation was simple yet significant: too many serious truck crashes were caused by driver fatigue. By transitioning from manual paper logs to electronic records, regulators aimed to reduce accidents caused by overextended or overtired drivers and create safer roadways for everyone.

Optimizing Buy-In on ELDs

Today, ELDs automatically record driving hours, reducing paperwork and eliminating errors common with manual logs. 

“The benefit is clear,” Dreyer explains. “It makes tracking hours and reporting so much easier. But it’s still a big shift for drivers who’ve spent years using paper logs.”

ELDs promote safety by ensuring rest periods and reducing fatigue-related incidents, but their effectiveness depends on buy-in. 

Managers should provide thorough onboarding, clarify how they’ll use data, and emphasize why ELDs matter: not to police drivers, but to protect them from fines and support safer, more sustainable work schedules.

As Dreyer notes, introducing these tools with empathy and transparency makes all the difference. “When drivers understand that this technology is used to keep them safe, not watch over their shoulder, they’re far more likely to accept it.”

Truck Technology Evolution: Telematics Moves Beyond Tracking to Coaching

“At first, telematics was about knowing where your vehicles were,” Dreyer shares. “Now, it’s evolved into tracking behavior like speeding, hard braking, and sharp turns, and that can feel a bit like ‘Big Brother.’”

The reality is that telematics has become nearly universal across the industry, with 83% of fleets now using telematics systems, underscoring just how central these tools have become to modern fleet management. 

For drivers, though, that ubiquity can make the pressure feel even greater, especially if they view the technology as punitive rather than protective.

However, the real value lies in how managers utilize the data. 

“The best fleets don’t just collect information, they act on it,” Dreyer emphasizes. “They follow up on driver behavior consistently, not just when something goes wrong.”

That means setting thresholds for alerts, reviewing trends over time, and using results as coaching opportunities, not punishment. 

“Calling a driver mid-route to yell about speeding is never productive,” he adds. “Instead, review data in regular safety meetings or one-on-one check-ins. Turn it into a learning moment.”

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Dash Cams: The Truck Technology That Protects Drivers and the Business

Perhaps the most controversial tool is the dash camera, especially inward-facing models. Many drivers worry about privacy or that others might unfairly blame them. Dreyer recommends starting with outward-facing cameras first.“They remove that defensiveness,” he explains. “If there’s an accident, the footage shows what actually happened. More than once, those videos have exonerated a driver who was wrongly blamed.”

When used correctly, cameras are a shield, not a spotlight. They help reduce nuclear verdicts, provide indisputable evidence in claims, and encourage accountability across the fleet.

Managing Truck Technology Change One Step at a Time

New technology often triggers resistance, not because employees reject innovation, but because they fear disruption. That’s why change management is critical.

“Every business is dealing with constant evolution from AI and automation to compliance changes,” Dreyer points out. “You have to understand not just the systems, but the people. Some adapt quickly. Others need time.”

Dreyer recommends tailoring rollout plans to individual personalities and tenure. Long-time drivers may need extra reassurance or hands-on support. Newer hires, who are already accustomed to digital tools, might adapt more quickly. Above all, keep communication open.

“Don’t just say, ‘Because I said so,’” Dreyer advises. “Explain why the change matters in relation to safety, for compliance, and for keeping the business strong.”

When managers invest in their teams by explaining changes, offering training, and reinforcing good habits, drivers feel valued rather than monitored. Over time, that builds trust and turns tech tools from sources of stress into instruments of success.

The Central Difference in Transportation Insurance and Risk Management

In an industry where technology evolves faster than most fleets can keep up, having an insurance partner who understands your business is essential. At Central Insurance, we recognize that managing transportation risk today goes beyond traditional coverage; it requires a deep understanding of how tools like ELDs, telematics, and compliance systems impact your operations, your people, and your profitability.

“With all the technology fleets are expected to adopt, you need more than just a policy; you need a partner who can help you interpret the data, understand the exposures, and stay compliant,” Dreyer highlights.

That’s where Central stands apart. Our dedicated transportation underwriting and loss control teams can work closely with agents and policyholders to develop practical solutions tailored to your fleet’s size and structure. We combine nearly 150 years of experience with real-world knowledge of the transportation industry and responsive claims service to help you minimize risk, control costs, and adapt with confidence.

Talk to your local independent Central agent about fleet risk management tools or to request a customized quote.