SOARING car crime figures have brought a call for fleet managers to take a more active role in combatting crime, including the introduction of penalties for company car drivers whose vehicles are broken into or stolen. According to a new report - the Lex Guide to Vehicle Security for Fleet Managers - companies could play a far greater role in cutting car crime. The annual number of vehicles stolen rose by over 10% to 407,569 between 1985 and 1997 (the last year for which figures are available) and thefts from vehicles increased by almost 50% to 710,089.

The report, compiled by Lex Vehicle Leasing in association with Thames Valley Partnership Integrated Autocrime, highlights ways fleet managers can easily reduce the risk of their company cars being broken into or stolen. 'An integrated, or structured, approach to corporate vehicle security should be developed as an integral feature of overall company policy. This implies a responsibility not only for the security of the vehicle but also the attitude and behaviour of the user.'

Lex says fleet managers could deduct 'penalties' from the salary of drivers found to be at fault after their car is broken into or stolen. The report (available on 0345-697381) also suggests that fleet managers should educate drivers on the threat of theft, from better parking practices to stowing valuable items out of view. It also reminds them to prioritise security equipment when making acquisition decisions.