“Company car managers have placed a great emphasis upon health and safety and driver training in recent years, therefore the modest rise in the number of endorsable offences during 2013 suggests their efforts are beginning to have an impact,” Mason says.
A large number of company car drivers were caught out after Transport for London cut its Congestion Charge exemption threshold to vehicles emitting less than 75g/km.
Drivers penalised for non-payment of the charge jumped 21 per cent, from 9150 fines in 2012 to 11,102 fines in 2013.
Mason believes this shows how important it is for businesses to communicate to their employees the various driving rule changes and the financial impact that this can have on driving a company car.
“The overall increase in fines and penalties will hit companies hard at a time when businesses are aiming to build on growth prospects,” he says.
Five tips to avoid driving penalties
Guy Mason says there are five simple ways businesses can cut their driving offences bill.
Screen new drivers before hiring
Hiring competent drivers is the key. If driving will form a significant part of a job, it’s crucial to ask the right questions during interviews, and for job offers to be conditional on safe driving credentials.
Encourage safety from day one
Educate drivers on driving skills and policies, from the time they join the company. Well-trained drivers are better equipped to handle the pressures that come with the job. While one course may not change a driver’s mindset, a regular programme can make a big difference to driving standards.
Allow drivers enough time to complete each journey
Business drivers are often under pressure to reach the next appointment and the temptation to rush often leads to poor judgement. Businesses need to allow drivers time to complete each job safely.
Route planning
Drivers should work out routes in advance, including where they can park and unload if that’s necessary. Drivers need to avoid distractions such as trying to read a map or calling for directions. Decent sat navs in your company cars will help.
Recognise and reward good performance
The safest company car drivers are also the most economical because they have lower repair, maintenance and insurance costs. Passing on those savings is a powerful motivator.
