Vehicle safety checks are a ‘must’ over summer, says Driving for Better Business

Driving for Better Business has reiterated the need for business drivers to carry out thorough vehicle checks and leave more time for journeys over the summer months.

The government-backed Highways England programme, played a role in the Department for Transport’s Road Safety Statement 2019.

Simon Turner, campaign manager at Driving for Better Business, said: “Our inclusion in the DfT’s Road Safety Statement 2019, an announcement that sets out the actions for road safety over the next two years, is a timely reminder for those who employ people who drive for work purposes to ensure they have taken appropriate measures to reduce occupational road risk: all hazards associated with driving for work.

“During the summer months there is often a significant increase in traffic density on certain roads due to the holiday season.

“Those who drive for work may need to plan extra time for journeys and should ensure they have carried out the necessary vehicle safety checks, especially in light of our research conducted by Censuswide (2019) that reports nearly three-quarters of employees who drive for work (74%) said when they check their tyres they simply take a quick glance to see that tyres look ‘OK’.”

Turner said a dual responsibility for managing work-related road risk is needed, as DfBB’s research shows nearly half (45%) of UK employees who use their personal car for work say they have not been given a copy of their employer’s driving for work policy.

He added: “Employers must effectively communicate a good practice driving for work policy across their entire workforce, making sure employees are aware of their legal obligations when driving for work – particularly for those who use their personal cars.

“We are also working hard to raise aware of the benefits to fleet operators of procuring safer vehicles.

“Autonomous emergency braking is one of the more promising safety technologies that is becoming increasingly common on both cars and vans.”

DfBB offers free guidance and resource to help employers manage the risks in asking staff to drive for work.

Companies registered in the programme collectively manage more than 500,000 drivers and 300,000 vehicles.