Lytx Deploys AI to Detect Distracted Drivers
Lytx, a leader in video telematics for commercial and public sector fleets, has upgraded its machine vision and artificial intelligence (MV+AI) technology to improve driver safety. Their system can now detect if a driver is distracted by actions like using a mobile phone.
Distracted driving is responsible for nearly a third of fatal accidents. To help mitigate this, Lytx’s enhanced technology can identify risky behaviors in near real-time, such as handling a mobile device while driving. Unlike traditional software that only responds after an incident based on G-force triggers, Lytx’s system constantly monitors both the driver and the road, acting like a sixth sense. It captures short video clips when it detects unsafe driving to provide insights into what’s happening inside the vehicle.
This advanced risk detection is part of Lytx’s Driver Safety Suite and initially covers four key triggers: using a handheld device, not wearing a seatbelt, eating or drinking, and smoking while driving. Fleet managers can integrate this technology with Lytx’s tracking service for a comprehensive solution to optimize fleet safety and efficiency.
With the industry moving towards compliance with DVS direct vision standards, these safety technologies are becoming increasingly crucial. Damian Penney, Lytx’s Vice President in Europe, highlights that this next-generation tech allows fleet managers to proactively address major issues like distracted driving. The new triggers help identify behaviors that might lead to dangerous situations, benefiting both personal safety and financial outcomes.
Lytx reports outstanding accuracy, with over 95% precision across more than 60 risky driving behaviors. In 2019, the company tagged over 1.75 million minutes of video for behaviors like mobile phone use, seatbelt violations, smoking, and eating or drinking while driving. Analyzing 200 billion kilometers of driving data and capturing 100,000 risky events daily, Lytx leverages a vast dataset validated by professional analysts to fine-tune its AI.
The system selects short video highlights of risky behavior, which are then analyzed by Lytx’s AI and uploaded via a 4G LTE connection to the cloud. These clips can be reviewed by fleet managers and drivers from any internet-connected device using Lytx’s proprietary coaching workflow. This program aims to change driving habits and has been linked to a 50% reduction in collisions and an 80% reduction in related claims costs.
Lytx offers video telematics, analytics, safety, and productivity tools for commercial and public sector fleets. Their driver safety program, powered by the DriveCam event recorder, helps save lives and minimize risks by providing actionable video insights into driving behavior.
