In the current age of ever-evolving technology, there are several driver tracking devices on the market that are used by insurance companies to monitor your driving habits. What is a driver tracking device? Are they safe? Do they offer any benefits to Missouri drivers? Do they reduce the risk of car accidents in Independence and the surrounding area? Read on, and see if our information helps you make up your mind.
What is a driver tracking device?
Driver tracking devices have been in use for quite some time now. From GPS tracking equipment to services like On Star (which utilizes global satellites and computer software), it's relatively easy to track the whereabouts and estimated speed of people, packages and animals.
With today's high priced insurance, consumers often look for ways to reduce their monthly rates, while ensuring that they're properly covered in the event of an accident. One alternative to traditional insurance is called usage-based insurance, or pay-as-you-go. However, traditional insurance generally allows drivers with better driving records and safe driving habits to receive lower insurance rates.
The driver tracking devices keep a number of different records related to driving behaviors. They track your speed, how fast you accelerate, how hard you apply the brakes, how many miles you drive, and what times of day you normally drive. At present, these devices are being used by both usage-based and traditional insurance plans. The device provides the insurance company with a current and accurate picture of how you drive, where you drive, when you drive, and the miles you accumulate.
The device is an on-board telematics: a small box is normally mounted under the dashboard. It tracks the data by interfacing with your car's on-board computer. Most boxes plug into your car's diagnostic port. The information is then transmitted via cell phone towers.
How could this affect drivers in Independence, Missouri?
Generally speaking, knowledge is power. If drivers recognize that they are prone to certain mistakes or dangerous practices, it's more likely that they will modify those behaviors. More practically, if the cost of an insurance bill directly correlates to a driver's ability to obey the speed limit, that driver will almost certainly think twice about speeding. The bottom line: safer drivers mean fewer car accidents.
Are tracking devices safe?
Unless they spark your concerns about privacy, these devices are safe and fairly reliable. Of course, if you speed excessively, or frequently tailgate other vehicles, such a device could prove dangerous to your wallet. Just as they reward good drivers with safe driving habits, insurance companies also charge more for drivers who are more likely to be involved in a collision.
Are driver tracking devices a good option for Missouri drivers?
If you're more likely to drive better when someone else is in the car, this device could prove beneficial to you. Likewise, if you're already a regularly safe driver, the device can pay off with lower insurance rates.
Anything that makes drivers more aware of their behaviors can be an asset when it comes to making Missouri roads safer. Also, since these devices discourage speeding, sudden stops, and sudden acceleration, they can help reduce gas consumption and wear and tear on your vehicle.
Safer drivers, less traffic accidents, lower insurance rates, better gas mileage, less wear and tear on your brakes? Seems like a good benefit all the way around.
If you have more specific questions about the legalities of these devices, or the ways they may be used in car accident investigations, contact our personal injury attorneys: call our Kansas City office toll-free at 1-888-777-AUTO, or visit our website at www.autoinjury.com.