A Clearsurance study of more than 160,000 insurance customer reviews found that the average rating for reviews mentioning telematics is 4.2 out of five possible stars. Such glowing reviews suggest insureds appreciate the benefits of telematics solutions. Yet, many commercial lines agents are missing opportunities to help their customers optimize fleet performance and boost sales by failing to discuss telematics with auto clients, says findings from Nationwide's Agent Authority survey.

Nationwide's study of 1,600 agents, mid-market business owners with fleet vehicles, and consumers found that fleet owners are more supportive of telematics than agents realize and are willing to pay more to track unsafe driving behaviors. In fact, 93% of business owners said they'd pay to ensure a safer driving experience, with the majority stating they'd pay between $20-$39.99 per month per vehicle.

"The [survey] results highlight a tremendous opportunity for carriers and agents to change the conversation around telematics from being a nice 'add-on' perk, to what it really has become — an essential tool for operating a fleet-focused business," said Pete Frey, director of commercial lines telematics at Nationwide, said in a release.