BRITAIN'S largest fleet driver training company, Drive & Survive, has launched a risk management service for small firms. The Derby-based organisation plans to target companies which may not have a dedicated fleet manager and advise them of measures to reduce driving risks and, as a result, their operating costs.

Working with major insurers, Drive & Survive says the initiative will give small fleets access to the same quality of service enjoyed by blue chip clients such as Dupont and BT and accelerate the growth of a safety culture within the company car industry.

Managing director Andy Neale says despite the proven benefits of advanced driver training in reducing the number of road accidents and injuries and lowering insurance premiums, as little as 2% of all drivers and just 10% of fleet drivers on the UK roads have had any form of additional driver training over and above preparation for the learner driver test.

'The statistics are alarming,' said Neale. 'There are more than three million company cars and the accident rates for a fleet driver are 30 - 40% higher than those for private motorists, yet few firms other than the major fleets even have a risk management policy.'

The process starts with one of Drive & Survive's regional risk management specialists talking to whoever in the company has responsibility for the fleet and drawing up a total fleet risk audit.

Driving guidance manuals can be drawn up, and the client will be offered vehicle suitability and procurement advice, along with guidance on relevant health and safety issues, accident reporting procedures, driver assessments and incentives for safer driving by employees.