The FICO® Safe Driving Score provides a number that measures driver risk and safety through the use of analytics software. The score provides valuable insight for fleet managers, who can help drivers lower their scores with more effective training driven by use of driver safety technology such as dash cams, GPS and real-time driver coaching.
The FICO® Safe Driving Score works much like a FICO® Score does in measuring consumer credit risk. The goal is to identify drivers with lower scores and take steps to bring their score up, therefore supporting safer drivers and safer roads.
Using the score also helps fleet managers reduce risk to their company and improve costs. Accomplishing these goals requires giving fleet managers the ability to select, deploy and use technology for driver safety.
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How the FICO® Safe Driving Score is Determined
FICO® – the Fair Isaac Corporation – created the FICO® Safe Driving Score through the use of telematics. The devices send and receive driver and vehicle interaction data. This allows for a more accurate assessment of risky driving behaviors.
FICO® uses telematics data is used to create a driver score based on driving performance issues such as acceleration, braking, cornering, speed and distraction.
The predictive modeling used to create the driver’s score is based on years of research and analysis of telematics data. FICO® has analyzed data from millions of road miles and millions of trips in multiple countries. They continue to evolve the algorithm to include new telematics, environmental and contextual data.
Telematics to Improve Driver Scores
Telematics, which supports creation of the FICO® Safe Driving Score, also provides the means for drivers to improve it. Consultive transportation technology companies offer telematics services, providing both the product and guidance on maximizing their benefits. The following three devices provide examples of driver safety technology that can improve scores, reduce risk and make roads safer for drivers and the public.
Dash Cams
Dash cams allow fleet managers to see inside cabs and look for any driver behavior that can increase risk. By using the footage of risky behavior, it’s easier to educate drivers on what they need to change. Just the mere presence of the camera inside the vehicle can lead to safer driver behavior.
GPS
Using GPS data, it’s easy for fleet managers to monitor vehicle location, speed and the distance traveled. GPS also supports the mapping of safer routes for commercial fleet drivers and offers real-time updates on traffic flow, construction projects that close roads, etc. They also make it easier to get emergency help to drivers in case they break down.
Real-Time Driver Coaching
Some telematics systems provide immediate feedback to drivers on their behavior through the use of alerts and other notifications. Fleet managers can also use the data compiled from different drivers to reward those with the best driving behavior. This technology for driver safety allows fleet managers to create more effective training programs for drivers. The end result is a better safety record for drivers, lowered risk for a company and safer roads for everyone.
