We’re living in a technological age, with non-stop development and innovation completely changing our way of life in recent years. New devices, gadgets, pieces of software, and technological inventions are transforming so many aspects of the world, including the trucking industry.
One of the most vital industries of them all, the trucking industry helps to support over 80% of America’s communities. Each and every day, truck drivers are responsible for driving countless tons of freight from place to place, strengthening the economy, and keeping the supply chain flowing.
Without trucks and their drivers, countless other industries would come to a grinding halt, and the world as we know it wouldn’t be the same, but trucking has long been considered a dangerous and difficult profession. Fortunately, tech is helping to change the game for truckers everywhere.
Advanced GPS Devices
Perhaps one of the best examples of advanced technology in the trucking industry is the advanced GPS devices that can be found inside many trucks in the modern age. GPS devices have been really important for trucking companies since they were first invented, but today’s devices are immensely superior to the rudimentary models that first arrived in automobiles in the 1990s.
Today’s truck GPS devices are incredibly advanced, able to offer the most efficient route-planning, along with dozens of other useful features and extras that can help truck drivers not only become more productive and complete their journeys more quickly, but also help them stay safe by informing them of traffic updates, accidents on the road ahead, bridge weight limits, and more.
Dash Cams
Another excellent example of modern technology being used to benefit the trucking industry is in dash cams. Also known as dashboard cameras, these little devices have taken off in a big way in recent years, being purchased, used, and enjoyed by drivers all over the globe. They’re typically positioned on the dashboard and can film the road ahead, creating an audio-visual log of any journey.
Dash cams have many uses and benefits, but they’re particularly important in the hands of truckers. They can help to provide evidence if trucks are involved in accidents, for example, as well as helping to deter thieves, fraudsters, and other kinds of criminals. Plus, they’re a great way for trucking companies to monitor driver performance and encourage good driving behavior among their workforce.
Blind Spot Cameras
Now, for another example of camera technology being used in great ways for truckers and trucking companies, we can look at blind spot cameras. It’s well-known that trucks have a lot of blind spots, and it can be hard or even impossible for truck drivers to keep track of all the vehicles around them since they aren’t able to see every single angle and area around their trucks as they drive.
Well, blind spot cameras are helping to change that entire situation and make the roads a lot safer for truckers and other drivers too. These cameras can be fitted in special areas around the truck, providing a video feed into the cabin and allowing truckers to see the blind spots that aren’t visible via their mirrors or windows. This can massively help drivers avoid accidents and stay safe.
Cabin Comforts
Trucking isn’t an easy job. It involves lots of long hours and a lot of solitude too, with truckers routinely having to spend many hours confined to their cabins, on their own, driving from place to place as they haul freight across the nation. As a result, many truckers suffer from boredom and fatigue on the road, and some even develop mental health issues or physical problems like exhaustion after particularly long shifts and journeys.
Modern technology can help with this too, changing the cabin environment entirely for today’s truckers. Now, with the help of modern gadgets and devices, it’s possible for a truck’s cabin to be much more functional, comfortable, and enjoyable than ever before. New devices and appliances like tablet screens, mini-fridges, and speaker systems can be fitted in the cabin to provide entertainment and comfort when truckers need to take a break and look after their health.
Final Word
It’s clear to see that today’s technology is having a real impact on the trucking industry, and there are many different ways in which truckers can benefit from the help of new gadgets, truck safety innovations, and other technological advancements. With technological progress continuing to proceed at a remarkable rate, we can expect to see even more great innovations for truckers in the years to come.
