It is a controversial topic at every truck stop: AI-powered dashcams facing the driver. For fleets, they are a safety tool; for many drivers, they feel like “Big Brother” is watching. But according to the latest data from the Motive 2026 AI Road Safety Report, the technology is here to stay, and it is changing how safety bonuses are paid. We look at the pros and cons for professional drivers.
What is the Motive Report?
Motive (formerly KeepTruckin) is one of the largest providers of ELDs and dashcams in North America. Their annual report analyzes data from thousands of trucks to see what actually causes accidents.
- The 2026 Finding: The report highlights a massive shift from “reactive” to “proactive” safety. Traditional dashcams only recorded after a hard brake event. New AI cameras detect risky behavior before an accident happens.
What is the AI looking for?
If your fleet installs these units, here is what the lens is tracking in 2026:
- Distracted Driving: The AI tracks eye movement. Looking at a cell phone or staring out the side window for too long triggers an alert.
- Fatigue: It detects yawning or frequent blinking (drowsiness) and can alert the driver to pull over.
- Seatbelt Use: It automatically flags drivers not wearing a belt.
- Close Following: It measures the distance to the car ahead relative to speed.
The Benefit for Drivers (Yes, really): Exoneration
While nobody likes being watched, the report shows a silver lining for professional drivers: Exoneration.
- In Canada, “crash-for-cash” scams (cars cutting off trucks to cause an accident) are on the rise, especially in the GTA (Toronto area) and Vancouver.
- The AI footage provides undeniable proof that the truck driver was not at fault, saving the driver’s commercial abstract (CVOR) and the carrier’s insurance rates.
The Future of Safety Bonuses
The biggest trend identified in the 2026 report is “gamification”. Fleets are using AI scores to rank drivers. Instead of just punishing bad behavior, smart companies are paying bonuses to drivers with the highest “AI Safety Score”.
- Advice: If your company uses Motive or Samsara, ask to see your score. It might be the key to your next raise.
Summary
AI Dashcams are becoming standard equipment in 2026. Instead of fighting the technology, smart drivers are using it to prove their innocence in accidents and negotiate better safety bonuses.
Source: Motive AI Road Safety Report / Trucking HR Canada / TruckstopCanada Editorial Team
Photo: Grand Goldmann
Disclaimer: Privacy laws regarding in-cab cameras vary by province. Always check your company policy.