Black boxes have been replaced by apps, which is progress. In theory a smartphone app can detect smooth driving, conformity to speed limits, no entry signs, LTNs and more – assuming the map data is constantly updated in real time of course, otherwise the speed limits would be wrong in some cases.
But can the new telematics apps really record all the data in an emergency situation, where say a driver swerves to avoid an uncontrolled child? Would swerving or braking to avoid the many thousands of potholes on UK roads put you in the `bad’ driver category if your commuting route contains some brutal potholes and sunken grids? These are valid questions that many customers will be asking once the monthly premium direct debit shows up on their banking app.
On a sidenote, it really is astonishing that choosing music on your phone is considered in any way more dangerous than interacting with the multi-choice, cinemascope sized screens in Teslas and many other EV vehicles.
Here’s the word from Aviva;
Aviva has launched a new initiative to encourage safer driving and potentially save customers money on their motor insurance.
Aviva MyDrive is a new feature of the MyAviva app, available to all users who purchase Aviva Online motor cover through a price comparison site. Existing customers are being invited to enrol in the Aviva MyDrive feature, which will monitor their driving habits through their smart phones and provide ongoing guidance to help them to drive safely.
Using telematics technology, the app will evaluate accelerating, braking, cornering, speed, and phone usage, such as taking calls or choosing music on their device.
Eighty-five per cent of Aviva MyDrive users are expected to be offered a discount on their Aviva Online motor insurance at renewal. Customers will be required to use the feature for 60 days or 400 miles, 33 days before their policy ends, in order to be eligible for the discount. The level of discount will depend on the individual motorist and how safely they drive, according to the telematics measurements.
After driving for two weeks, customers will receive fortnightly updates via the app, providing insights to enable people to hone their motoring skills. Customers need to actively opt in to the scheme to enable the app. Driving habits will not be monitored if people choose not to enrol in the scheme and users can opt to stop sharing their data at any time. Users will be given weekly insights on their driving performance and information on specific journeys.
Take a look at how touchscreens are extremely distracting and take a driver’s eyes away from the road, in this video clip;
QUOTE ME HAPPY
The app follows on from the launch of Aviva’s QuoteMeHappy Connect in December 2022, a connected motor proposition aimed at young drivers. Unlike Quotemehappy Connect, Aviva MyDrive is available to all motorists who purchase motor insurance cover through a price comparison site.
While Aviva MyDrive is designed to encourage safe driving, users will not have their motor insurance cancelled or their premiums increased as a result of their driving habits being monitored.
Lorna Whalley, Head of Retail Propositions, Aviva says: “Nine out of 10 motorists think of themselves as competent drivers,2 but most will agree there are occasional moments when their driving could have been better.
“Telematics technology is a great way for customers to get an independent analysis of their motoring skills, and potentially identify any areas where they could improve. While traditionally telematics tend to be associated with younger drivers, Aviva MyDrive is available to all customers who purchase Aviva motor insurance through a price comparison site – meaning all users can receive guidance on their driving.
“Better still, the more safely the person drives, the more they could save on their Aviva motor insurance when they come to renew their policy. We anticipate that 85% of Aviva MyDrive users drivers will be offered a discount at renewal. Even the most experienced motorist could develop their driving habits, which could mean safer roads for everyone.”
Be the first to comment