Tracking Systems
Tracking systems for your vehicle are available in two different types: active and passive systems. A passive system records the vehicle's journeys and the data can later be downloaded onto a computer once the vehicle has returned. However, more popular are active tracking systems. Active tracking systems use global positioning satellites (GPS) to track vehicles' movements in the same way as satellite navigation systems work. The data is recorded in real time and you can therefore see where your vehicles are at any time of the day. The data is sent back to a PC or a mobile phone loaded with the relevant app.
Covert Trackers
Covert trackers are used primarily as an anti theft device. If it is obvious there is a tracker on your vehicle and that vehicle is then stolen, chances are the car will be dumped as soon as this is realised or the tracker will be removed. Trackers can be placed covertly on the vehicle where they cannot be easily found. Usually they are attached to the underside of the car. This will enable your vehicle's position to be quickly identified in the case of a theft or car jacking. You must, however, only use a covert car tracker to track the vehicle and not the person driving as the UK has very strict laws on such practices.
The Law
In the UK, you must abide by the law on vehicle tracking at all times. Whilst it is legal to put a covert tracker on your car or your company vehicles, you must make sure that you are not tracking the driver of the car covertly. In other words, the person who is driving the vehicle must be aware that there is a tracker in place. To track the vehicle without the driver's knowledge is illegal. The only case when vehicle tracking is legal without the driver's awareness is when it is done to uphold the law. So only police and intelligence have the authority to track a vehicle without the driver's awareness.
Advantages to Car Trackers
Having a car tracker installed on your car has lots of advantages. If the vehicle is stolen then the tracker will enable the police to recover it quickly. Also, for this reason, some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who put GPS trackers on their vehicles.
In the case of an employer putting trackers on company vehicles, this has many more advantages. It can help to plan better routes for company drivers which in turn will lead to lower fuel costs. Additionally, it will ensure that employees are safer when they are travelling alone and that stock is given extra security. It may also mean that employees will be much less likely to take personal detours on your company's time.
Trackers can be purchased outright, leased or hired and there are a large number of companies across the UK that specialise in vehicle tracking devices who will be able to tell you which would be the best product for your needs.
