Crashes involving high impact or vehicle rollovers are among the most dangerous incidents on the road. Being able to detect and respond to these events quickly can make a life-saving difference.

What is a Crash Detection event?

Smartrak’s Crash Detection feature is designed to alert managers in the event of severe vehicle incidents, specifically:

• Crash Detection: High impact when a vehicle crashes into an immobile object such as a tree or wall (detected via AVL or Nextrak devices).

• Rollover: When a vehicle tips onto its side or roof (detected via AVL devices only).

These events are serious, often involving injury or unconsciousness, which makes immediate notification critical.

Why rollovers are so dangerous

Research from the Centre for Automated Safety Research, shows that rollovers are one of the leading causes of serious road injuries and fatalities.

Top causes of single-vehicle rollovers (most to least frequent):

1. Driver inattention

2. Alcohol or drug use

3. Vehicle faults (e.g. worn brakes)

4. Inappropriate speed

5. Driver fatigue

6. Dangerous driving

Understanding these risks allows fleet and health and safety managers to implement proactive measures and respond rapidly when incidents occur.

How crash detection works

Crash Detection and Impact Detection feature are enabled through Smartrak’s in-vehicle tracking devices - the AVL (Automatic Vehicle Locator), the OBD-II (Onboard Diagnostics) and Nextrak. Note that Impact Detection is designed to detect major crashes (low-speed collisions (e.g. minor bumps) will not trigger alerts).

AVL monitors:

• Impact Detection: Sudden large changes in acceleration from any direction.

• Rollover at rest: When the vehicle is no longer upright, resting on its side or roof.

OBD-II monitors:

• Impact Detection only

Nextrak monitors:

• Impact Detection only

What happens when a crash is detected?

When a Crash Detection event is triggered:

• An immediate alert is sent from the device to Smartrak’s software platform.

• Managers, team leaders, and security centres can view the alert in real-time.

• Alerts can also be sent via SMS and email.

Each alert includes:

• Date and time of the event

• Vehicle GPS location

• Vehicle and driver identification (if Driver Identification is enabled)

This information helps organisations initiate their emergency response plan without delay.

Strengthen crash prevention with these practices

Crash Detection works best when supported by other fleet safety measures. Here are three key strategies:

1. Implement a telematics system

Use telematics to monitor:

• Speeding

• Harsh braking or cornering

• Extended driving hours

This data allows you to identify at-risk driver and provide targeted coaching or training.

2. Prioritise regular vehicle servicing

Routine maintenance ensures:

• Brakes, tyres, and mechanical systems remain safe and roadworthy

• Reduced likelihood of crashes caused by equipment failure

3. Improve fatigue management

Monitor for signs of driver fatigue by:

• Reviewing trip durations

• Encouraging regular rest breaks

• Educating drivers on fatigue risks and trip planning

Benefits to your organisation

Equipping your fleet with Crash Detection and other safety solutions offers:

• Faster emergency response when high-impact crashes occur

• Reduced risk of serious injury or death

• Greater compliance with your health and safety obligations

• Stronger support for lone workers and remote staff

Protect your people, strengthen your safety culture

Crash Detection is available with Smartrak’s AVL, OBD-II and Nextrak GPS tracking and telematics solutions.

Contact Smartrak today to learn how Crash Detection can protect your team and strengthen your safety practices.