Is your fleet putting your company at risk?

30 September 2013


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Driving on company business is one of the most dangerous activities an employee will be involved in, with estimates suggesting that a third of all traffic accidents in the UK involve someone who is at work at the time and may account for over 20 fatalities a week*. Yet five years on from the introduction of the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act, AXA warns that many businesses with company vans** are not following the most basic of steps to protect themselves against potential prosecution in the event of an accident.
               

The study by AXA of 300 businesses with vans found that:

                                         

  • 45% were unaware of the term Corporate Manslaughter
  • 8%  had failed to check whether those driving their company van held a valid driver’s license
  • 15% weren’t confident that their company van (s)’ MOTs were up to date
  • One in four test the brake function/fluid of their van just once a year or less
  • 9% service their vehicles less than once a year and a further 6% never do so.

                               

As an insurance broker, we see the results of people failing to comply with the rules and regulations designed to keep road users safe. And while we know that often there is no intent to break the rules we also know that complacency can carry a very heavy price tag.

                        

Our top tips:

                   

The driver

                    

  • Validate and regularly check your drivers’ licenses
  • Assess your employee’s driving skills
  • Consider driver training – it can prevent accidents and improve fuel efficiency

                        

The vehicle

                    

  • Service vehicles regularly and keep maintenance records
  • Ensure all vehicles are safe and fit for purpose
  • Encourage employees to check tyre pressure, ensure lights work, check oil and water levels
  • If your staff are using their own vehicles for company business check they have the appropriate insurance cover

                        

Remember, the business has the same responsibility when drivers are using their own vehicles; this includes those in receipt of a cash allowance in lieu of a company car.  

                            

The journey 

                

  • Ensure your drivers are having the correct amount of breaks
  • Drivers should not be encouraged to speed to complete their work-load
  • Telematics  and/or onboard video technology can be very effective tools to improve fleet operating costs and utilisation

                   

No matter how many vehicles you operate, it is important to implement a robust, documented fleet risk management strategy to protect your employees and your business.

                          

*HSE: http://www.hse.gov.uk/roadsafety/roadsafety.htm
**Research was carried out online in June 2013 by AXA among 300 businesses with one or more company vans.