Where can I find an FAQ on DriveSmart, Cover Whale's driver safety program?
You're in luck! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the DriveSmart program.
Why is a dashcam or electronic logging device (ELD) connection required?
Connecting a Cover Whale-supplied forward-facing dashcam or an existing approved ELD is essential, because it helps spot unsafe driving practices that might cause accidents. The telemetry collected from either device option, along with coaching, enables us to offer top-notch insurance at competitive prices.
Will connecting an ELD or dashcam help my clients save money?
Yes, because of the information from the dashcam or ELD, we’re often able to provide lower introductory premiums than our competitors and offer our safest Auto Liability policyholders significant savings at renewal. For potential discounts, we evaluate drivers on factors including frequency of speeding, hard-braking, and hard-cornering incidents, and dashcam/ELD compliance. These help us understand drivers' safe-driving practices and enable us to apply our safe-driver discount at renewal.
Can a driver use their own device?
Yes, policyholders can use their own ELD, as long as it is compatible with Cover Whale's driver safety program. (Please note that the overwhelming majority of devices are supported by our program). If a policyholder chooses our dashcam option instead, they must acquire the dashcam(s) on loan from Cover Whale.
What is the dashcam or ELD looking for?
They look for speeding, hard braking, hard-cornering, and other risky driving behaviors.
Can the dashcam be covered?
No, covering the dashcam while the ignition is on and the vehicle is moving is considered tampering with the camera. It's important to keep the dashcam uncovered for safety and insurance purposes.
Are the dashcams provided by Cover Whale dual-facing?
No. We recently updated our policy to only require forward-facing dashcams--inward-facing cameras are no longer required.
When is the dashcam recording?
The dashcam records only when the ignition is switched on and the truck is running. Don't worry – it won't record when the ignition is off for extended periods.
Can the dashcam footage be shared with employers?
Yes, certain footage, if available can be shared with the policyholder, if requested.
What happens if the dashcam isn’t installed or the ELD isn't connected?
Installing a dashcam or connecting an ELD is required for all Cover Whale Auto Liability policies. Failure to do so will result in cancellation of coverage.
What do you do with the telemetry from the dashcams and ELDs?
Cover Whale uses the information from the dashcam to provide safe driving feedback and to offer discounts on future premiums for our safest drivers. Dashcam footage can also be used to protect and/or exonerate drivers and help settle claims in the event of an accident.
Is dashcam footage saved?
Only footage related to coachable driving events and accidents are saved.
How long do you retain dashcam footage?
Footage is only temporarily retained onboard the dashcam and is constantly recording over itself. Footage is saved only in the event of a coachable driving event or safety incident.
What fees are associated with Cover Whale's telemetry data sharing requirement?
Underwriting fees are assessed for both ELD and dashcam telemetry data-sharing options (applicable only to E&S policies). These fees reflect our sustained commitment to enhancing driver safety and continually improving our service. Click here to learn more.
Does the dashcam record audio?
No, it does not.
Who can we contact if there is an issue with the dashcam?
If your client encounters any issues with the dashcam, feel free to reach out to hello@coverwhale.com. We're always happy to help!