Debunking 4 Common ELD Myths

In the fleet world, the Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Mandate has generated a lot of talk and concern. With only eight months until the compliance deadline of December 18, 2017, companies are running out of time to begin implementing electronic logging.

While several articles and blogs have discussed several of the key benefits offered by ELDs, fewer have addressed the common misconceptions that have emerged since the mandate passed. For this blog, we will debunk four of the common myths surrounding ELDs.

1. ELDs violate privacy

Though GPS tracking does monitor and record the locations of drivers on the job, it is used only to protect a valuable company asset. Companies use location tracking to guard against potential theft and to efficiently route to jobsites, not to track their employees. If company vehicles are authorized for personal use, companies must reduce location accuracy to a 10-mile radius when employees are off-duty.

2. ELDs complicate driver responsibilities

Some people claim that ELDs require additional driver attention and interaction, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Unlike manual hours of service (HoS) logging, ELDs require little action from drivers. These devices connect to your vehicle’s engine and automatically track driving hours, so all your drivers need to do is record their current duty status to ensure accurate records. And, since many ELDs alert drivers when they approach maximum driving hours, accidental violations are nearly impossible.

3. ELDs cost more than they save

Effortless HoS tracking and compliance is priceless, but your ELDs don’t have to be expensive. With a Geotab Go device and Geotab Drive, you can comply with the ELD Mandate for less than $40 a month, plus you’ll have access to additional telematics data. Your logging device will also help you save on penalties, fines, accidents caused by drowsy driving, and paid time, which can quickly add up for your company.

4. ELDs only offer HoS benefits

Compliance may be the main reason to invest in fleet-wide ELDs, but it’s not the only benefit these devices offer. Drivers using ELDs have a lower crash rate, which has led some insurance companies to offer lower rates for vehicles with these devices. With the help of your device, you can decrease the time it takes to get through roadside inspection, lessen the costs of bad driving behaviors, and lower your overall operating costs.

The ELD Mandate is encouraging change within the industry, but not all change is bad. Implement your ELDs before time runs out and watch the benefits roll in.