What if driver monitoring was mandatory for insurance?

How a single policy shift could save thousands of lives each year

We’ve all seen the statistics. Distracted driving is no longer a minor issue – it’s a global crisis. Whether it’s texting, eating, daydreaming, or even fatigue, the outcome is the same: a distracted driver is a dangerous one. 

And yet, despite this growing risk, most drivers can still secure insurance policies with no real accountability for how they behave behind the wheel. No one would dream of insuring a pilot who flies blind, so why are we doing the equivalent with drivers? 

It raises a critical question – one that could reshape the future of road safety: 

What if driver monitoring systems were mandatory for all insurance policies? 

To understand why this matters, we need to look at how the road risk landscape has evolved. Drunk driving has long been seen as one of the most reckless behaviours on the road. And rightfully so – it’s extremely dangerous. But recent studies reveal that distracted driving may be even worse. 

The World Health Organization reports that mobile phone use while driving increases the risk of a crash by four times, even when using hands-free devices. In the US, distracted driving claimed over 3,275 fatalities and nearly 325,000 injuries in 2023.   

Despite the alarming stats, the tools that can detect and help prevent these behaviours — AI-powered driver monitoring systems — remain largely optional. 

The case for AI driver monitoring technology 

Driver monitoring systems use AI to analyse facial expressions, eye movement, head position, and hand activity. They can tell if a driver is texting, falling asleep, or simply not paying attention. When risky behaviour or is detected, the system delivers real-time alerts, intervening instantly to prevent mistakes from turning into tragedies. 

It’s like having a co-pilot focused solely on safety—one who never gets tired or distracted. 

For commercial fleets already using this technology, the results speak for themselves. Companies have reported significant reductions in risky driving behaviours since implementation. 

This isn’t theory. It’s a proven, scalable solution. 

Why insurance could be the key 

Insurance companies already use telematics (or black box systems) to track speeding, hard braking, and other risk factors. Drivers often receive financial incentives through cheaper policies, or face penalties based on how they drive. 

So why stop there? 

Imagine if every driver was required to use a driver monitoring system to secure or renew their policy. The impact could be transformative: 

• Fewer crashes and fatalities 

• Lower insurance claims 

• Safer roads for all users 

• A strong deterrent for distracted behaviour 

It would be the equivalent of requiring seatbelts in every car — a shift that once faced resistance but is now seen as basic safety. Today, failing to wear a seatbelt is viewed as both reckless and irresponsible.

At the end of the day, you’re not only putting your own life at risk — you’re endangering passengers, pedestrians, and everyone else on the road. 

Global proof points: it’s already working 

This isn’t a hypothetical future. It’s already happening in places around the world: 

• Australia (NSW): AI cameras detecting phone use helped reduce mobile-related fatalities by 22% 

• United Kingdom: trials show high accuracy in catching distracted drivers with AI, leading to government funding for wider rollout 

• United States: fleets using in-cabin monitoring tech have seen up to 89% drops in high-risk driving behaviours 

The message is clear: when drivers know they’re being monitored, they drive more responsibly. Whether through public infrastructure or private fleet systems, the technology is working. What’s missing is widespread policy adoption. 

Time to challenge the status quo 

So, what if insurers and regulators made driver monitoring a non-negotiable requirement? 

It wouldn’t just protect lives—it could reshape the future of road safety. Think about it: what if every driver knew their focus and alertness were being tracked—not to punish, but to protect? 

We don’t allow drunk drivers to keep their licences. We penalise speeding. Why not apply the same logic to distracted driving, which is now just as dangerous – if not more so? 

Insurance companies can lead the next safety revolution 

It’s 2025, and the modern driver faces more distractions than ever. Social media, podcasts, WhatsApp group chats, fatigue after long working days — all common, all risky. But unlike in the past, we now have the technology to see it. To stop it. 

We’re not just talking about more rules or stricter laws. We’re talking about a smarter, tech-enabled safety net. And insurers are in a unique position to lead this charge. 

If driver monitoring was mandatory for insurance, it could be one of the most effective public safety measures of the next decade. 

Because if we have the tools to save lives – why aren’t we using them?