A FLEET management company running 50,000 vehicles has been hit by a 50% increase in the number of drivers fined for non-payment of the London congestion charge.

At the beginning of last year the company handled an average of 900 fines a month for congestion charge non-payment, speeding, illegal parking and bus lane misuse.

Today, the number of fines has increased to an average of 1,300 a month. The company fears the problem will get worse and is calling on fleet decision-makers to educate drivers to pay up.

Inchcape Fleet Solutions managing director Tony Bartlett said: ‘Not only are drivers breaking the law but it is costing them and their employers money in both fines and administration charges. A more focused approach on their responsibilities would ensure the penalties are avoided.’