Fleets ‘not taking security measures’ to protect vehicles

Almost one-in-four businesses with fleet insurance say they do not have specific security or anti-theft measures in place for their vehicles, according to NFU Mutual.

New research from the fleet insurer shows that, of those surveyed, 23% said they have not taken steps to put in security or try and prevent theft of their vehicles.

It also found that just half (55%) of smaller fleet businesses implement security measures compared to 91% of medium-sized fleets and 85% of large fleets.

Mark Bromhall, fleet risk manager at NFU Mutual, said: “Risks come to all areas of businesses and it’s important for those managing their fleets to know they are secure and protected.

“It’s good to see more than three-quarters (77%) have security in place for their fleets – but we would urge everyone, where possible, to take steps of getting anti-theft measures in place to protect themselves and their businesses.

“Even where insurance covers the cost of theft, there is no quantifying the disruption and the worry caused to staff after a vehicle is stolen or damaged, so prevention really is the best cure.”

He continued: “Small businesses play such a crucial part in our country and theft is likely to be all the more disruptive for these companies, so to see almost half of those surveyed saying they don’t take security measures is concerning.

“If you are not sure what measures to take, we’d recommend seeking advice on helping manage your fleet risk, with our survey showing 23% of respondents do not seek such advice at present.

“These small steps can help make fleet owners feel far more secure and protected, while also have plans in place should anything bad happen.”

The research also highlighted the key priorities in the fleet industry from those operating a fleet of vehicles, with employee safety coming out on top – as 88% of people surveyed said that was ‘very important’.

Company reputation, compliance and employee wellbeing were the others to make up the top four priorities for those in the sector.

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