Commercial Truck Camera Systems: Everything Truckes Should Know

Modern commercial trucks are equipped with an array of cameras designed to enhance safety, provide security, and ensure accountability on the road.

If you’re a truck driver or a fleet manager, understanding these camera systems is crucial.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything from the types of cameras to their installation and also benefits for you.

In the United States, the Department of Transportation (DoT) requires that all commercial trucks be equipped with truck backup cameras. However, these regulations only apply to new trucks; many older trucks on the road do not have them.

Commercial trucks are subject to stringent safety regulations, and one of the most critical requirements is the installation of backup cameras.

These cameras are mandated by the Department of Transportation (DoT) to improve safety during reversing maneuvers and to reduce the likelihood of accidents.

Despite this requirement, it’s important to note that the regulation primarily targets new trucks. Many older commercial trucks still in operation may not have these cameras installed. The absence of backup cameras in older trucks can pose significant safety risks, making it essential for owners and operators of such vehicles to consider aftermarket solutions.

Backup cameras are invaluable tools that provide drivers with a clear view of the area behind the truck, which is often a large blind spot.

Truck Side View Camera

This visibility is crucial for preventing accidents involving obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles.

It enhances the driver’s ability to make informed decisions while reversing, reducing the potential for collisions and associated liabilities.

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There’s a lot of reasons that carriers are installing driver-facing cameras, but the biggest one is it gives carriers a better chance to avoid liability in the case of an accident.

Driver-facing cameras are becoming increasingly common in commercial trucks, and there are several compelling reasons behind their adoption.

One of the primary motivations for carriers to install these cameras is to mitigate liability in the event of an accident.

Image Credit: Insurance Thought 

These cameras monitor the driver’s behavior and actions while on the road, providing a comprehensive view of what transpired during an incident. This footage can be crucial in determining fault and exonerating the driver if they were not at fault.

It also helps carriers address issues related to driver safety and performance, allowing for targeted training and improvements.

Beyond liability concerns, driver-facing cameras contribute to overall safety by promoting responsible driving habits. Drivers are more likely to adhere to safety protocols and maintain focus when they know they are being monitored.

This increased accountability can lead to a reduction in risky behaviors such as distracted driving, speeding, or aggressive driving.

Additionally, these cameras can serve as valuable tools for coaching and training drivers.

Fleet managers can review footage to identify areas where drivers may need additional support or training, ultimately improving overall safety and efficiency within the fleet.

Many truck owners are surprised to learn that they can retrofit a backup camera if their pickup is missing one from the factory!

If your commercial truck does not come equipped with a backup camera from the factory, you may be wondering if it’s possible to add one.

* Kocchi’s Vehicles Multi Camera Systems

The good news is that retrofitting a backup camera is entirely feasible and can significantly enhance the safety and functionality of your vehicle.

Retrofitting involves installing an aftermarket backup camera system that integrates seamlessly with your truck. These systems come in various configurations, from basic camera setups to more advanced options with multiple cameras and additional features.

The process typically involves mounting the camera on the rear, side or front of your truck and connecting these cameras to a display monitor in the cab.

Depending on the system you choose, the camera feed may be displayed on an existing screen, such as the infotainment system, or on a dedicated in-cab rear view monitor.

Before proceeding with the installation, it’s essential to choose a high-quality camera system that meets your needs.

Consider factors such as camera resolution, durability, and compatibility with your truck’s existing electrical system. Professional installation is always recommended to ensure proper setup and functionality.

The truck camera systems are usually powered by the vehicle’s electrical system and are set up to activate automatically when the vehicle ignition is in the ON position.

Some dash cameras have a standby setting to record video while the vehicle is parked if activated by an impact or tampering with the vehicle from the outside.

Truck camera systems are engineered to provide continuous surveillance and capture critical footage under various conditions. Here’s how they operate:

The majority of truck cameras are powered by the vehicle’s electrical system. This ensures that they have a stable power source and can function reliably without frequent battery replacements.

Kocchi’s Truck Backup Camera System: Wiring Diagram

Cameras are typically set to activate automatically when the vehicle’s ignition is switched on, ensuring that recording begins as soon as the truck is in use.

Dashcams, in particular, often have additional features to enhance their functionality. Many of these cameras include a standby setting, which allows them to record video even when the vehicle is parked(Up to 24hrs).

This function is particularly useful in case of impacts or tampering with the truck while it’s unattended. If the dash camera detects movement or a significant jolt, it will start recording to capture any events that occur.

The recorded footage or audio(some Driver-facing dashcams record in-cab audio) is typically stored on removable memory cards, HDDs or cloud storage platform. Most modern truck cameras solutions come with various storage options to ensure that critical data is not lost.

Additionally, these camera systems may include features such as loop recording, which overwrites the oldest footage when the storage capacity is reached, ensuring continuous recording without the need for manual intervention.

For a vehicle that already has a screen, cameras range from $150-$400. Count on $400-$600 for labor. If your car doesn’t have a screen, there’s additional cost, of course: $150-$300 for a screen alone and $500-$1,500 for a new head unit with a screen.

The cost of installing a backup camera for a commercial truck can vary based on several factors, including the type of camera system, the complexity of the installation, and whether the vehicle already has a compatible display screen.

Image Credit: The Buttons

For trucks that already have an integrated display screen, the cost of purchasing a backup camera system can range from $150 to $600. This price range typically includes the camera itself, wiring, and any necessary mounting hardware. Keep in mind that these figures are general estimates, and prices can vary based on the brand and features of the camera.

In addition to the cost of the camera system, you should budget for labor costs associated with the installation. Professional installation typically ranges from $400 to $600, depending on the complexity of the job and the rates charged by the installer.

If your truck does not have an existing display screen, you will need to account for the additional cost of purchasing and installing a screen.

A standalone screen can cost between $150 to $320, while a new head unit with an integrated screen may range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the features and functionality.

Overall, the total cost of retrofitting a backup camera system on a commercial truck can vary widely based on the specific requirements and preferences of the owner.

Investing in a high-quality system and professional installation can ensure optimal performance and reliability.

License plate bar: Like the license plate frame mount, a backup camera may be installed on top of a license plate bar.

Proper placement of a backup camera is crucial for maximizing its effectiveness and ensuring a clear view of the area behind your truck. One of the most common and recommended mounting locations is on top of the license plate bar.

Mounting the camera on the license plate bar provides several advantages. It offers a central and low position at the rear of the truck, allowing for a wide field of view. This placement captures a comprehensive view of obstacles or hazards directly behind the vehicle, making it easier to navigate in reverse.

In addition to the license plate bar, there are other potential mounting locations for backup cameras, depending on the specific design and configuration of your truck. Some alternative options include:

a. Near the Tailgate Handle: Mounting the camera near the tailgate handle can provide a higher vantage point, offering an even broader view of the rear area. This location is particularly useful for trucks with larger cargo areas.

b. On the Rear Bumper: Mounting the camera on the rear bumper can provide a clear and direct view of the area immediately behind the truck.

However, this placement may be more susceptible to damage from impacts or road debris.

c. Above the Rear Window: Mounting the camera above the rear window provides an elevated view of the entire rear area. This placement is advantageous for trucks with larger or taller cargo areas, as it offers a clear perspective over the cargo.

When selecting a mounting location, consider factors such as the camera’s field of view, durability, and ease of installation. Professional installation can ensure that the camera is properly positioned and securely mounted for optimal performance.

There’re different types of cameras can be used to remove blind spots, and it’s also important to provide video proof to avoid being held liable for another’s error for an accident.

A backup camera or dash camera for commercial trucks can provide truck drivers and fleet managers with enhanced control over their fleet’s safety by improving visibility, decreasing collision risks, and reducing crash-related expenses.

A truck dash camera serves as an indisputable eyewitness to accidents and other driving hazards, offering video evidence to ensure fleet security.

Rearview or side mirror-mounted cameras are specifically designed to minimize blind spots and reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by truck hidden in these blind zones.

We wrote an article before to discuss the different types of cameras available for truck application, check link post “The Different Types of Cameras for Commercial Trucks“.

Ready to choose a commercial truck camera systems for enhancing safety, security, and accountability for your truck or fleet?

From backup cameras required by regulations to driver-facing cameras that mitigate liability, vehicle camera systems play a crucial role in modern trucking operations.

Whether you’re retrofitting a backup camera or exploring audio recording capabilities, understanding the various aspects of truck cameras can help you make informed decisions and improve overall safety within your fleet.

Kocchi’s product manager Eason brings his technical expertise to help explain vehicle safety products in an easy to understand fashion. Eason loves sharing his knowledge of the vehicle camera system and technology insights. He is the part of Kocchi’s team that knows ‘all the things’. He’s good at sharing his technical knowledge so you can benefit. BTW, he is an avid Lego fan!