And now the charity is calling for the government to put a stop to these cuts, warning that more drivers will think they can ‘get away’ with illegal drunk or drugged driving.

There are five deaths and 65 serious injuries on UK roads every day and Brake says many deaths and injuries result from criminal behaviour, and all from man-made and preventable circumstances.

Last week the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) released results from its Christmas breath-testing campaign, showing the importance of roads policing in protecting the public. In December, England and Wales forces breath-tested nearly 157,000 drivers, with 5% testing positive. However, this was an 8% fall on breath tests carried out in the same period in 2010

Julie Townsend, Brake’s deputy chief executive, said: "It is crucial the government acts now to put a stop to these dramatic cuts in life-saving roads policing, by making this a national policing priority. This is crucial in safeguarding the public and preventing needless casualties that lead to terrible suffering, and it also makes economic sense. Road crashes constitute a huge social and economic burden, because of the awful implications for those bereaved and injured, and the strain on health and emergency services. Investing in roads policing, and stepping up critical checks like breath-testing, helps stop crashes before they happen, meaning less families suffering and reduced costs to the taxpayer."

Alan Jones, Chairman of the Roads Policing Group, Police Federation England & Wales, said: "I am not surprised at the findings announced in this report. Policing the roads should be a priority for government and Chief Constables: this is nothing less than the public expect. As police forces try to deal with a staggering 20% budget cut, their resources and capabilities are being stretched to a point where delivery of service is difficult to sustain. We all know the consequences of drivers who fail to heed the rules of the road or drive with complete disregard for others. The cost of cutting back far outweighs the benefits of investing in protecting a key front line service."

Organised by road safety charity Brake, the ‘Best of the Best’ conference will be held at Birmingham’s Cranmore Park on Tuesday 28 February.

The event promises to include a host of speakers investigating the most effective and innovative policies and programmes in tackling work-related road crashes.

Roz Cumming, Development Manager at Brake, believes that the conference is vital for anyone involved with fleet safety.

She said: “The Best of the Best Conference not only offers a fantastic opportunity to hear first hand about a wide range of best practice, life-saving risk management programmes, but also provides networking opportunities, and the chance to discuss future developments in work-related road safety.”

Topics and speakers include:

Where next for work-related road safety?

• Shaun Helman, Principle Psychologist with TRL and Dr Will Murray, Research Director for Interactive Driving Systems

Fleet safety and the environment

• Julie Welch, Health and Safety Manager and Paul Clark, Fleet Engineering Manager at Cemex
• Dale Eynon, Head of Fleet Operations – Corporate Assets at Environment Agency

Reporting and recording incident data

• Andrew Kemp, Occupational Road Risk Manager for Tesco
• Rory Morgan, National Logistics General Manager, and Tracey Kinloch, European Risk Manager with Iron Mountain

Making policy reality

• Tyler Stilwell, Global Road Safety Leader at Cummins Inc

Cost efficiency through fleet safety

• Dave Abbott, Technical Director for Cardinus
• Richard Hill, Managing Director of Peak Performance

Marc Wanless, Senior Motor Underwriting Manager at event sponsor Aviva, said: “This event offers fleet managers a fantastic opportunity to discover best practice methods for running a safe and cost effective fleet. Given the current economic climate, it’s an opportunity that fleet managers cannot afford to miss.”

Visit fleetsafetyforum.org/events for more info on how to attend.

New figures from Association of Chief Police Officer report that over 7,100 drivers were arrested during December after failing breathalyser tests; an increase of 16% on the same period in 2010.

Ellen Booth, Senior Campaigns Officer for Brake, said: “As a charity that supports families devastated by road death and injury, we see the appalling suffering that results from drink and drug driving.

“Brake commends the police for their continuing hard work protecting the public from those who flout drink and drug driving laws, but we need to see action by government to stamp out these needless tragedies.”

Ms Booth also called for roadside drug testing devices and a new offence of driving after taking illegal drugs.

“We also need greater priority given to roads policing by government, to ensure drivers are made clear that they can’t and won’t get away with taking these abhorrent and selfish risks,” she added.

“Our message to drivers is clear – no amount of alcohol or illegal drugs is safe to drive on – not a drop, not a drag.”

Young concern

Drink drivers were responsible for one in seven road deaths in 2010, according to data from the Department for Transport.

Concern has been raised over the number of young drivers ignoring the drink/drug drive message.

Of the 7,124 motorists that tested positive for drug use, or refused or failed a test last month, 2,074 of them were under the age of 25.

Research from DfT in 2010 also found that drivers under 25 are the most likely age group to be impaired by alcohol after crashing with more drink drive crashes per licence holder or per mile travelled than any other age group.

Road safety charity Brake named Karl Turner MP and Mark Spencer MP as Road Safety Parliamentarians of the Year during its annual reception at the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday [11 January].

Karl Turner, MP for Hull East, was presented with the National Campaigner Award in honour of his successful campaign for justice for families who experience the devastation of a serious injury at the hands of a dangerous driver, while Mark Spencer, MP for Sherwood, received the Community Campaigner Award in recognition of his efforts towards safety improvements on the A614, a road plagued with devastating casualties.

It was a proud and honourable for Karl Turner [pictured above], who commented: “Brake does some wonderful campaigning work for road safety and I would like to thank Brake for its support in my campaign.

“I am delighted that I have been able to effect change in the law and the government have agreed to create a new law of Causing Serious Injury by Dangerous Driving. This law will carry a maximum sentence of five years.  

“I believe that this change will put the victim at the heart of the judicial process and the sentence more fairly reflects the terrible damage and suffering that can be caused by dangerous driving.”

“I hope that this small change in the law will have a huge impact on the victims and families of dangerous driving.”

Further challenges

Mark Spencer [pictured left] seemed glad of his achievements but felt there was still much to be done: “I’m pleased to say that statistically we seem to be making progress with improving the safety record of the A614 and a new 50mph speed limit order is in place between Ollerton Roundabout and Leapool Roundabout as a casualty reduction scheme.

“The challenge now is to ensure the enforcement of the speed limit and I have spoken with local police about ensuring this. There is still work to be done, particularly at the worst of the junctions, and I will continue to fight for improvements for those at Rose Cottage and Mickledale Lane.”

Presenting the awards, Julie Townsend, Deputy Chief Executive for Brake, said: “In 2011, these parliamentarians worked incredibly hard to achieve positive outcomes for their constituents and communities across the UK.

“Both have championed the cause of road safety and seen major breakthroughs as a result, contributing to improved safety on our roads and helping to reduce the terrible trauma suffered by crash victims.

“Moving into 2012, efforts like these are ever more important, if we are to tackle the resurgent death and injury toll on our roads. Brake commends both MPs for their valiant work which has, and will continue to, make a real difference to people’s lives.”

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ABD comment on the use of 3D scanners
Our first story is from the ABD, who have made comment on the use of 3D scanners at the scene of serious road traffic accidents (RTAs).

The organisation have applauded the government for implementing this technology to avoid the 10 hours plus tailbacks, that have become the norm in recent times, following the police’s preference to treat all serious accidents as crime scenes.

They are now calling for the ‘Road Death Investigation Manual’ produced back in 2007 by the police to be rewritten, pointing out that only a minority are due to a crime being committed. They also point out the seriousness of vehicles diverting onto unsuitable routes in an attempt to avoid delays being a real safety hazard, as well as the inconvenience of missed appointments being another knock-on effect.

They have called for RTAs to be treated in the same way as air traffic accidents (ATAs) with the emphasis on establishing the cause of the accident rather than apportioning blame.

Do you agree that this is the way forward? Are you confident that a desire to keep traffic moving should in no way mean a crime may go undetected or evidence of one be missed? Let us know your views using the comments box below.

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Kwik-Fit support Tim Hudson’s recent statement
Kwik-Fit were delighted by the vice chairman of the National Association of Motor Auctions, Tim Hudson’s recent statement that the importance of a franchised dealer stamp being critical in the resale value of vehicles has greatly diminished, as he pointed out: “What is essential is that company cars and vans have a documented service history across their fleet life to ensure top residual values are potentially achievable.”

Although an increasing number of fleets, contract hire and leasing companies are turning to the independent sector for servicing and MoT requirements some operators remain nervous of not taking vehicles to a franchise dealer, fearing this could have detrimental repercussions on the future value of their assets.

Kwik-fit expect to see the current 35% year-on-year rise of company-owned vehicles taken to their centres rising further after these welcomed words.

“Confirmation from an independent authority such as Tim Hudson of the National Association of Motor Auctions will give more fleets and leasing companies the confidence to have their vehicles serviced at Kwik-Fit centres in the knowledge that residual values will not be damaged,” commented Kwik-Fit Fleet sales director Peter Lambert.

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ACFO honour Tony Leigh
The ACFO have honoured one of their longest standing members with an honorary life membership. Tony Leigh is, after twenty-five years service, stepping down as ACFO company secretary in order to let new blood into the organisation.

“I believe now is the right time to step down and to let younger fleet decision-makers become more involved with ACFO. In more than a quarter of a century of involvement with ACFO I have seen the organisation change and grow so that it now deservedly is the premier organisation for fleet operators. I wish the organisation every success in the future,” said Mr Leigh.

“Tony has been a tremendous servant to ACFO for more than a quarter of a century. His in-depth fleet knowledge and experience has been hugely beneficial to ACFO as a whole and many members,” added Julie Jenner, who took over from Mr Leigh as ACFO chairman in 2006.

Although retiring from ACFO, Mr Leigh, continues in his job as head of car fleet services at PricewaterhouseCoopers and will have his lifetime membership confirmed at the organisations 2012 AGM. Meanwhile, the ACFO board is currently considering the appointment of a new company secretary, and will announce its intentions early in the New Year.

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Leasedrive win furniture supplier contract
Leasedrive have won a five-year sole supplier contract from furniture supplier Harveys, who previously opted to use several suppliers and brokers for its fleet needs.

"An existing customer of our rental management division, we were doubly delighted to win the tender process for Harveys’ contract hire business. We have also provided financial modelling to determine the optimum financial funding route and are providing a duty of care service for cash allowance drivers," commented Roddy Graham, commercial director at Leasedrive.

Leasedrive will supply around 140 contract hire vehicles to Harveys, who are owned by the Steinhoff UK retail group.

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Ogilvie Group hope to continue strong performance in 2012
Ogilvie Fleet have reported a strong performance through 2011 and are looking forward to the same this year, having increased its UK fleet to over 10,000 vehicles. Owned by the Stirling based Ogilvie Group, which achieved a seven per cent increase in turnover in 2010, Ogilvie Fleet have plans to continue to strengthen its place in this sector.

“We have continued to maintain a solid performance in what are difficult economic conditions and expect that consistency to continue into the coming year," commented Duncan Ogilvie, Chief Executive, Ogilvie Group.

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Brake call on the government to address rising drug-driving problem
Brake, together with Direct Line, are calling on the government to act now and push through proposals on addressing the rising problem of drug driving.

A survey by Brake and Direct Line found that three per cent of young drivers (age 17-24) regularly drive after taking drugs, often once a month or more. It also revealed that one in nine young drivers, eleven per cent, has driven on illegal drugs in the past year.

Brake, together with the family of Lillian Groves, a young girl who was only 14 years old when she was killed by a driver who had been smoking cannabis are calling for long-needed reform, including:

1. A new law making it an offence to drive while on illegal drugs, to rectify the current loophole. Currently it is only an offence to drive while impaired by drugs, meaning police must prove impairment to prosecute;
2. Approval and roll-out of roadside drug screening devices, so police can test for drugs at the roadside and immediately following a crash.

"The risks of driving on drugs are huge, and the consequences devastating – yet a huge proportion of young drivers are taking this appalling gamble with their own and others’ lives. We need all drivers to pledge to never mix drugs and driving, and we need the government to follow through with its commitment to tackle this problem. For too long the law on drug driving has been totally inadequate. We need a ban on driving with illegal drugs in your system, and we need roadside drugalysers. The longer this takes, the more lives will be violently and tragically lost," commented Ellen Booth, Brake senior campaigns officer.

Staying with Brake, they will be hosting their 10th annual Fleet Safety Forum Awards in June 2012 and are inviting entries, the deadline of which is March 16, this year, and which can now be made online.

The evening, which will be held at the MacDonald Burlington Hotel, Birmingham, includes a drinks reception, 3-course dinner with wine, casino, disco and entertainment and is an important networking event in the fleet calendar.

Brake make no entry charge but do require any company entering to book at least one seat at the gala dinner and awards ceremony.

To book places for the event, click here to access the online form or contact Brake on 01484 559909 or by emailing admin@brake.org.uk.

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IAM concern over young male driver overconfidence
A report from IAM worryingly shows that sixty-two per cent of male novice drivers feel they possess greater driving skills than average, with only thirty-two per cent of female novice drivers saying the same.

The report entitled ‘The fast and the curious: young people’s attitudes to driver training’, also highlights that real incentives such as reduced insurance premiums are required to attract these drivers to taking further training.

“Young male drivers suffer from a lethal combination of overconfidence and inexperience. They don’t need curfews and other restrictions on their driving; they need to practice and gain driving experience safely. There are many paying thousands of pounds a year in insurance and killing themselves. The solution to this problem is to link driver training and insurance discounts," commented IAM chief executive Simon Best.

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And finally, staying with the IAM…

Have you made your new years resolutions yet? Road safety charity the IAM, chief examiner and Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger is this week offering his top new year driving resolution tips.

Rodger said: “The new year is a common time for people to sit back, reflect and revaluate. Why not begin by making changes to your driving to make you safer on the road in 2012?”

1. Look out: Keep an eye on the road ahead including pavements to give yourself more time to identify and respond to hazards;
2. Anticipate what the traffic around you may do especially at traffic lights, roundabouts and junctions;
3. Room: Make sure you keep space around your vehicle to leave you more time to deal with hazards;
4. Refuel: When embarking on longer journeys, take a break every two hours;
5. Mirror-effect: Use all your mirrors regularly so that you have 360 degree awareness of what is going on around you;
6. Don’t presume: Never assume that another motorist has seen you or will react in the same way you might;
7. Learn: Be open minded and realistic about your limitations and always be prepared to learn from any errors you make.

Don’t forget to visit the IAM website, www.drivingadvice.org.uk, to get up-to-date traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

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So that’s the first News Round-up of 2012 and we hope you have found it as stimulating and informative as the previous year’s offerings. We’re looking forward to a whole year of news ahead and sharing the best of all things fleet related with you. Don’t forget, we also want to hear from you and your views on the stories featured above so we hope you’ll take a minute to use our comments box below. Until next week drive carefully and tally-ho 2012!

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Road charity Brake, together with Direct Line, released damning research this past week that showed that three in ten people are willing to risk driving after drinking alcohol and a massive fifty three per cent are happy to drive the morning after a heavy night of drinking, even though they may still have enough alcohol in their bloodstream to put them over the limit.

Whilst the survey does show a lower number of young drivers, down by fifteen per cent on 2007 figures, admitting to drinking and driving it still remains the most likeliest age group to test positive for alcohol after a crash.

Brake are calling for drivers to remain safe this Christmas by totally abstaining and offer the following advice:

• Never drink and drive – not a drop: Also ensure you do not need to drive early the next morning if having more than one or two drinks;
• Plan ahead to get home safely: Never get into a car with a driver who has been drinking even a small amount;
• Speak up: If you see a friend or loved one about to drink and drive tell them the horrific consequences aren’t worth it.

“Christmas is a time for family and friends to get together and celebrate. But for some of the families Brake supports, it’s a sad time when they remember loved ones who have been killed in crashes caused by drink-drivers – in many cases young, inexperienced drivers who didn’t think through the consequences. Their deaths were preventable, and we all – young and old – have a responsibility to do what we can to prevent further drink drive deaths and injuries. We can do that by pledging to never drink a drop of alcohol before getting behind the wheel, never get in a car with a driver who has been drinking, and to speak up about drink driving to friends and family this Christmas. Making this commitment could save your life, or the lives of loved ones,” said Julie Townsend, Brake campaigns director.

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The Department for Transport have revealed that of the £27 million collected in motoring taxes in 2010 only £9.45 million was spent on local and national roads, a mere third of the funds amassed.

“This is highway robbery. Using so little of the taxes motorists pay on road upkeep is plainly unfair. Motorists are also paying the price as Britain’s potholed and increasingly dangerous roads take their toll, damaging tyres, wheels, steering and suspension. Cuts are clearly going to have an impact on transport investment, but as more roads become more potholed and dangerous, spending on infrastructure now will save money in the long-term,” stated IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig in response.

We want to hear you views on the DfT’s revelations. Is spending more than a third of revenue entirely on roads realistic? Or do you agree with IAM and feel this falls woefully short of the mark?

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Staying with IAM. Whilst many of us are feeling the thaw, driving in snow and ice is something more than a few people will still have to contend with this coming week.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger offers his top tips and advice stating:

“Avoid travelling unless completely necessary, and don’t ignore police warnings or advice to not travel on specific routes. Can you work remotely, or change your schedule?”

• Make sure your windows are clear and that you have all-round visibility before you set off. Also take the time to clear snow off the roof of your car;
• When driving in snow, get your speed right – not too fast that you risk losing control, but not so slow that you risk losing momentum when you need it;
• Start gently from stationary, avoiding high revs. Stay in a higher gear for better control, and if it is slippery, in a manual car move off in a higher gear, rather than just using first;
• If you get yourself into a skid the main thing to remember is to take your foot off the pedals and steer;
• Only use the brake if you cannot steer out of trouble. Double or even triple your normal stopping distance from the vehicle in front so you are not relying on your brakes to be able to stop. It simply may not happen!;
• It’s better to think ahead as you drive to keep moving, even if it is at walking pace;
• Plan your journey around busier roads as they are more likely to have been gritted;
• Avoid using short cuts on minor roads – they are less likely to be cleared or treated with salt, especially country lanes and housing areas;
• Bends are a particular problem in slippery conditions – slow down before you get to the bend, so that by the time you turn the steering wheel you have already lost enough speed;
• On a downhill slope get your speed low before you start the descent, and do not let it build up – it is much easier to keep it low than to try and slow down once things get slippery.

If the worst does happen keep track of where you are. If you do have to call for assistance, you need to be able to tell the breakdown or emergency services your location, so they can find you. Also, if you must leave your vehicle to telephone for assistance, find a safe place to stand away from the traffic flow. If you have just lost control the next driver could well do the same in the same place. And remember that on motorways and dual carriageways it is always better to leave your vehicle and stand a short distance behind and to the safe side of it. Don’t stand in front of it if at all possible.
For more advice on driving in the snow don’t forget to visit the IAM’s website at www.drivingadvice.org.uk.

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Fleet Support Group (FSG) have announced their acquisition by Automotive Resources International (ARI), an American group of family companies. There will be no change in FSG’s management structure or staff positions as a result of the acquisition for the Chippenham based company.

FSG Chairman and founder Geoffrey Bray hailed this as the start of an “exciting new era for the company, its staff and its customers."

"Both FSG and ARI are privately-owned family business and have a similar ethos of partnering with customers and driving efficiency through pro-active management and a zero-tolerance approach to unauthorised expenditures. Both organisations partner with their customers to create solutions that enables a fleet to perform at peak efficiency. Both organisations already offer turnkey solutions for public and private sector fleets. Added value for our customers will be achieved through synergies from joining the ARI family,” he added.

"This significant acquisition is another vital step as we continue to expand the scope of our services and our geographical reach. Everyone at ARI is extremely excited about FSG joining our family of companies and about the opportunities that lie ahead of us in the European market,” stated ARI President Carl Ortell.

Lord MacLaurin, who will continue as a non-executive director of FSG and is former CEO and Chairman of supermarket giant Tesco, and former Chairman of Vodafone, said: “The association of FSG and ARI is very exciting for both parties. ARI will have a toehold in the UK which will provide a stepping off point for Europe, while FSG will be able to leverage its prestigious customer portfolio on to the international stage.”

FSG, which was acquired for an undisclosed sum is set to celebrate its 25th anniversary next year.

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And finally…

Christmas is coming early thanks to Leasedrive, who, to celebrate the launch of their new website is offering one day free car or van rental to new customers.

Sales and marketing director, Paul Fleming, at Leasedrive said: "Our website has been completely revamped with a totally new look and feel. What is more, as fleet management experts, we invite visitors to our website to challenge us, under a new "Challenge the experts" section, by letting us know what issues they currently face. Our experts will then respond with the most suitable solution via e-mail or telephone.

Vehicles included in the offer are Ford Mondeos, Vauxhall Insignias and Ford Transit Connects and the new website can be found at www.leasedrive.com.

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If you have any views on the featured stories this week we’d like to hear from you so don’t be shy and use the comments box below. Whether you are driving a car, van, truck or sleigh, remember to keep safe and drive carefully and so until next time all of us here at Fleet Directory wish you all a Very Merry Christmas.

With 2012 just around the corner ACFO have been looking towards the new year and what it will mean for many fleets. They envisage a marked increase in company car demand as opposed to cash allowance schemes, with BIK tax thresholds set to tighten at the beginning of the next financial year.

“Evidence suggests that with personal budgets being squeezed due to the global economic crisis, drivers are firmly focused on how much tax they are paying and their disposable income. Although almost every driver will see their company car tax bill rise from April 6, 2012, analysis reveals that it is significantly cheaper to pay tax on a company car than to run your own vehicle.," commented ACFO chairman Julie Jenner.

Recent research by the RAC has put the average annual cost of owning and running a car at £6,700, at a rise of 14 per cent in the past twelve months, which is three times the current rate of inflation.

“Employees cannot run their own cars for that amount of money. Although company car benefit-in-kind tax rates will increase for 2012/13, drivers and employers alike should do their own calculations and they will realise that through the careful selection of low emission vehicles, a company car is the financially astute choice in these austere economic times. Economic conditions mean that all employees are much more focused on the cost of living. If cash allowance drivers calculate the cost of funding and running their own vehicle, including service and maintenance bills, they will be pleasantly surprised to discover that they can be better off by opting back into a company car,” added Ms Jenner.

The ACFO also predicts that 2012 will be the year of the electric fleet, with the arrival of the plug-in hybrid such as the Toyota Prius and Volvo V6, together with the extended range models of the Vauxhall Ampera and Chevrolet Volt.

“Pure electric vehicles may be suitable for some urban, low mileage fleets, but for the vast majority of businesses they are not viable on a number of counts including operating costs, residual value uncertainty, range and the lack of a viable recharging infrastructure. However, the imminent arrival of plug-in hybrids and vehicles equipped with range extenders make the electric option a more realistic alternative for many fleets as some of the concerns, particularly around driving range and recharging, are overcome," continued Ms Jenner. 

Despite the imminent availability of such vehicles current tax incentives for EVs have only been set until the March 31, 2012 with a review due early in the new year. The Government has so far made no announcement of any possible funding to aid the acquisition of this new breed of EVs through the Plug-In grant scheme.

“The Government has a clear carbon-cutting agenda but in announcing future benefit-in-kind tax levels for petrol and diesel powered models as well as the new breed of electric alternatives, the tax structure must not run ahead of technology. Company car drivers and businesses require a vehicle choice and if choice is restricted and tax bills become too punitive, the Government risks driving employees into cash alternatives. That is accompanied by inherent risks ranging from reduced revenue flowing into Government coffers to drivers selecting older cars with higher emissions and fewer safety features than if they had stayed in company car schemes.”

Continuing on the theme of the Plug-in Grant Scheme she said: “An initial £43 million pot was set aside to fund electric car acquisition, but demand has been so low that only around 1,000 vehicles have been bought. However, that should not put the Government off continuing to fund the scheme.”

Ms Jenner’s final comments related to the Government’s Autumn Statement decision not to cut fuel duty immediately: “Fuel prices at current levels are simply unsustainable. We hope fuel prices will fall in the New Year and that will have a positive impact on the economy and cash flow for businesses and private motorists alike. However, if there is no respite then the Government must look again at its fuel duty strategy in the spring Budget. We are very mindful that in the Autumn Statement the Government did not cut duty but merely dropped a January 2012 increase and reduced the planned August rise from 5p a litre to 3p a litre – pump prices need to fall.”

The ACFO this week met with HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) officials and repeated their request for a full analysis of the current Approved Mileage Allowance Payments (AMAP) system as part of an in-depth review of present financial models, having made their first request some eight years ago.

The current AMAP rate for employees who use their own cars or vans for business mileage increased on April 6 2011 to 45p from 40p for the first 10,000 miles driven with the rate of 25p per mile thereafter remaining unchanged.

ACFO argue that the current 45p (and previous 40p) per mile reimbursement for the first 10,000 miles and 25p a mile thereafter is over-generous for higher-mileage cases, working against the Government’s goal of discouraging unnecessary mileage and this has also helped persuade some employees to opt out of company car schemes over the years.

“The current AMAP structure was established almost a decade ago and since then the only change has been the 5p a mile increase in reimbursement rate to 45p. ACFO has always held the view that the 10,000 mile threshold provides a significant incentive for many employees to drive completely unnecessary distances, because they can generate significant expense claims tax-free. That is even more likely to be the case given today’s economic climate with personal and household budgets being squeezed. We would like Government officials to carry out a robust computer modelling exercise that delivers a more subtle approach to mileage reimbursement instead of the current two-band, single mileage threshold system. Feedback from the ACFO membership clearly indicates that the ‘broad brush’ approach taken by Government is not working. We therefore took the opportunity at our meeting to request that an analysis is undertaken and we will continue to put forward the case for consistent and fairer treatment of AMAP rates.
“We enjoy an excellent working relationship with HMRC and Treasury and we are optimistic following the meeting that their financial experts will address our views," said ACFO chairman Julie Jenner.

Do you agree with ACFO? Would you also like to see a change in the current AMAP system or do you feel that this should be left as it is? We would like to hear your comments.

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After last week’s announcement from road safety minister Mike Penning that learner drivers will be able to take to the motorways with a qualified instructor has prompted the following response from Brake:

“It’s positive the government is looking at measures to reduce risk and develop skills among newly licensed drivers. Young drivers are involved in a huge proportion of crashes that kill and seriously injure because of their inexperience coupled with the tendency of many to take risks. However, simply allowing learners to take instruction on motorways doesn’t go far enough. To reduce the devastating crashes and casualties that involve young drivers, we recommend wider reform of our learning to drive system, including a minimum learning period and restrictions for novice drivers, to protect them from the most dangerous situations. This approach of ‘graduated driver licensing’ has worked in other countries and there is evidence it would dramatically reduce casualties in the UK too,” said Julie Townsend, Brake campaigns.

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Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger, is offering his top tips courtesy of IAM for motorists to cope with the current windy weather, with further gales predicted this week:

1. Plan your journey – is there a route with less exposure to the weather and less risk of fallen trees? Choose a sheltered route if you have the option;
2. Strong winds are not constant, they are usually gusty so ensure you hold the steering wheel firmly;
3. Overtaking high sided vehicles or driving past buildings can result in a sudden gust from the side as you clear;
4. Give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual. They get blown around by side winds easily;
5. Watch trees and bushes on the roadside – their branches show you how strong the wind is. Look well ahead, that way you don’t need to take your eye off the road and you can see any windy patches before you get to them;
6. Go slow enough to cope with the gusts. Wind can get under a car and reduce its handling and braking significantly;
7. Keep an eye on what is happening to other vehicles – where they are affected will give you a pre warning;
8. Keep extra distance between you and the car in front;
9. Be careful of debris, try and have space beside you in case you need to dodge it.

Rodger said: “I have seen a parked car moved by the wind. Don’t underestimate how powerful it is and how it can affect you whilst in the car.”

Don’t forget you can visit IAM’s website drivingadvice.org.uk, to get all your traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

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And finally…

How many female gym staff and members does is take to fill a mini? Well according to the Guinness Book of World Records that number has recently been set at 27, thanks to the amazing fundraising efforts at David Lloyd Leisure’s Eastbourne club.

The new record was achieved after five weeks of training and rehearsing, which included stretching exercises, building people pyramids and hula-hoop challenges and has raised £1,778 for Children in Need, braking the previous record of 26 people held by a New York dance club.

Club DL Kids coordinator and swimming coach, Dani Maynard, who organised the event, said: “We didn’t think we could do it and it was so uncomfortable at the end. We’re absolutely delighted that our efforts paid off and we can now call ourselves world record breakers! What makes this even more amazing is that unlike previous holders, who were dancers and cheerleaders, we are real women of all shapes and sizes.”

David Lloyd Eastbourne general manager Ben Underwood added: “This was no mean feat, what Dani and her group achieved is truly incredible. I am also delighted that their efforts raised so much money for such a good cause.”

Gives a new meaning to needing to stretch your legs after being in a car! Our congratulations go to all of those who helped with bring this record home across the pond for such a worthy cause!

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So that’s it for another seven days. We here at Fleet Directory are off to do some serious Hoola Hoop training of our own, I reckon I can do three packets in a row so long as I stay away from the prawn cocktail… Remember to be safe on the roads, plan ahead for your journeys and ensure you have your emergency packs ready in your vehicles. Also we’d like to hear your views on the featured stories using the comments box below. Until next week…

However, slushy roads are an issue that can be contained with the right knowledge, according to road safety charity Brake which this week released new guidance for fleet managers on the topic of ‘Driver Safety in Bad Weather’.

A third of all fatal road crashes last year happened when road surfaces were wet, flooded, icy or snowy, according to data from the Department for Transport, and Roz Cumming, development manager at Brake, hopes that fleet managers have educated drivers on the dangers present when driving in adverse weather.

“While attention in the UK turns to winter, the Fleet Safety Forum wants to highlight the risks associated with driving in bad weather at any time,” said Roz.

“Our guidance gives accessible, practical advice and information that managers can use to manage this risk and keep their drivers and other road users safe, during the holiday season and beyond.”

Steve Coffin, Marketing & Operations Director for MiX Telematics, explained why his company was supporting Brake’s latest publication: “While a key aspect of our work in the fleet management arena is to help reduce road risk all year round, at no time is this more important than during the winter months when safe and careful driving is essential.

“I would urge all fleet operators to acquire a copy and put its good ideas into practice.”

The first 50 fleet managers to enquire will receive a free copy, while non-subscribers will have to pay £5. Email forum@brake.org.uk or call 01484 559909 to order.

The Association of Car Fleet Operators (ACFO) has met with with officials from HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to request the 3% diesel company car benefit-in-kind tax surcharge, is scrapped. At the same time they renewed their request for a five year advance notice period for future company car benefit-in-kind tax rates.

ACFO chairman Julie Jenner said: “There are no valid reasons for today’s diesel models to carry a 3% company car benefit-in-kind supplement. It was introduced almost a decade ago for reasons than no longer exist. Personal budgets are being squeezed, and evidence suggests that average company car mileage is reducing. If drivers can save money by selecting a petrol-engined model in comparison with a diesel car they will make that choice. Ultimately, the Government’s decision to retain the 3% supplement may prove to be counter productive and the tax-take will reduce.”

ACFO listed a number of reasons the 3% surcharge should be abolished, a tax they say is totally unjustifiable:

1. The additional tax was levied because in 2002 diesel cars were regarded as significant polluters. However, today’s models have CO2 emissions below those of their petrol-engined equivalents;
2. The fuel efficiency of some of today’s petrol-engined models have improved significantly and, coupled with the price premium of diesel cars over petrol equivalents and the widening price differential between petrol and diesel at the pumps the advantages of diesel – even with a tax penalty – are being wiped out;
3. Forthcoming Euro 6 emissions standards – due to be introduced on September 1, 2014 for new models, and from January 1, 2015 for the registration and sale of new types of cars – could add ‘several’ hundred pounds’ to the price of diesel cars to ensure compliance.

Whilst in the past the Government have given three years notice of company car benefit-in-kind tax thresholds, this has now slipped to two years in the past 18-months under coalition rule. The request for a five years notice was first requested by ACFO in the spring of this year and was repeated during this recent meeting.

Ms Jenner added: “Many employees have their company cars replaced on a four-year cycle so they remain in the dark as to what their benefit-in-kind tax burden will be in the third and fourth year. We had success with calling for three years advance notification and with some fleets adopting longer vehicle replacement cycles, we will continue to push for five years in our talks with Government officials.”

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IAM responded this week to Road safety minister Mike Penning’s announced that learner drivers will from next year will be allowed to have driving lessons on motorways in a bid to cut the death toll among novice motorists.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “This change will mean that properly supervised young drivers can learn how to drive on a motorway with somebody beside them. Motorways are, after all, our safest roads. As part of the changes to the test, we would also like to see more training for learners on rural roads – our most dangerous roads.”
IAM’s latest report ‘The fast and the curious: young people’s attitudes to driver training’ worryingly shows that sixty-two per cent of young male novice drivers think they are more skilful than the average driver.

IAM chief executive Simon Best, said: “Young male drivers suffer from a lethal combination of overconfidence and inexperience. They don’t need curfews and other restrictions on their driving; they need to practice and gain driving experience safely. There are many paying thousands of pounds a year in insurance and killing themselves. The solution to this problem is to link driver training and insurance discounts. But this training needs to be done early. Fewer miles driven since passing the practical driving test and fewer attempts to pass the practical driving test (more likely to be a first time passer) make drivers more likely to be positive about further training.”

What are your views on this subject? Do you believe lower insurance for novice drivers will result in them undertaking more training voluntarily? And do you believe that these changes to our existing learner system, where drivers who have not yet passed their test will be allowed to take lessons on motorways is a good idea? We would love to hear your views.

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Staying with IAM and Peter Rodger, IAM’s Chief Examiner has issued some sage advice on driving in snow and ice, and freezing conditions, which are currently spreading across the country.

“Avoid travelling unless completely necessary, and don’t ignore police warnings or advice to not travel on specific routes. Can you work remotely, or change your schedule?” he says.

When travel in unavoidable these following top tips will help keep you safe during this month’s inclement weather:

1. Make sure your windows are clear and that you have all-round visibility before you set off. Also take the time to clear snow off the roof of your car;
2. When driving in snow, get your speed right – not too fast that you risk losing control, but not so slow that you risk losing momentum when you need it;
3. Start gently from stationary, avoiding high revs. Stay in a higher gear for better control, and if it is slippery, in a manual car move off in a higher gear, rather than just using first;
4. If you get yourself into a skid the main thing to remember is to take your foot off the pedals and steer;
5. Only use the brake if you cannot steer out of trouble. Double or even triple your normal stopping distance from the vehicle in front so you are not relying on your brakes to be able to stop. It simply may not happen!;
6. It’s better to think ahead as you drive to keep moving, even if it is at walking pace;
7. Plan your journey around busier roads as they are more likely to have been gritted;
8. Avoid using short cuts on minor roads – they are less likely to be cleared or treated with salt, especially country lanes and housing areas;
9. Bends are a particular problem in slippery conditions – slow down before you get to the bend, so that by the time you turn the steering wheel you have already lost enough speed;
10. On a downhill slope get your speed low before you start the descent, and do not let it build up – it is much easier to keep it low than to try and slow down once things get slippery.

If the worst happens:

1. Keep track of where you are. If you do have to call for assistance, you need to be able to tell the breakdown or emergency services your location, so they can find you;
2. If you must leave your vehicle to telephone for assistance, find a safe place to stand away from the traffic flow. If you have just lost control the next driver could well do the same in the same place;
3. On motorways and dual carriageways it is always better to leave your vehicle and stand a short distance behind and to the safe side of it. Don’t stand in front of it if at all possible. Balancing the risks of a collision and hypothermia is something that depends on your situation.

Don’t forget that more advice on driving in the snow and other difficult seasonal weather can be found at the IAM’s website: www.drivingadvice.org,uk

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Leasedrive Group have released their predictions for the top ten trends for 2010, Commercial director, Roddy Graham says:

1. Fewer Large Players as Industry Consolidates Further – “Expect consolidation to continue with fewer players making up a more select league table.";
2. Asset Funding vs. Asset Management – “As the squeeze continues on financial institutions, set against a backdrop of the Eurozone debt crisis, expect further banks to question non-core activities and consider concentrating on what they do best. There’s a wide gap between asset funding and asset management which more banks are recognising – expect change!";
3. Cost ,’The War Cry’ – “Expect every cost line to be challenged and the winners will be those who do even more with less.”;
4. Olympic Transportation Nightmare – “Transport for London has spent an extra £6.5bn on improvements and line extensions but accepts delays are inevitable. Transport definitely appears a weak link and will affect the fleet industry.";
5. Tax Efficiencies = More Salary Sacrifice Schemes – "With salaries frozen or increases kept to a bare minimum, salary sacrifice could become more popular for hard-pressed employees wishing to see their money go further.”;
6. Company Cars vs. Cars-for-Cash – “Fuelled by a combination of factors; lower CO2 emissions, higher mpg, wider model choice, tougher car policies, a sensible Benefit-in-Kind regime and greater vehicle manufacturer incentives, the company car is back on the road again.”;
7. Electric Vehicle Charge Forward – "With more and more new electric vehicles coming on stream from vehicle manufacturers, expect EVs to start making their presence quietly felt, albeit unannounced to pedestrians and cyclists, in towns and cities.”;
8. Greater Pump Price Stability – “The FairFuelUK Campaign collected more than 100,000 signatures to secure a Parliamentary debate on scrapping the three pence per litre petrol duty increase in January and called for a fuel price stabiliser where taxes go up when oil prices fall and drop when oil prices go up. The FairFuelUK Campaign has had unprecedented success so far and expect it therefore to drive for more concessions from government.";
9. Lower Vehicle Rental Costs – "The word on the street is that one of the major rental companies has so upset its rivals that they have had enough and are determined to recover market share through aggressive pricing. A price war for market share would result in lower vehicle rental costs. The only question is how long the price war can continue before one of the major names cries wolf as profits become significantly impacted?”;
10. Proliferation of Fleet Management Outsourcing – “In a tough economic climate, businesses naturally wish to focus on core activities, those that they are expert at. Specialist vehicle management companies have the right people, the right expertise and the right technology to make things happen while their customers concentrate on their core functions.".

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Brake has a number of workshops, conferences and reviews planned for the beginning of 2012 and are taking bookings for places now:

• Workshop: Look sharp: eyesight and at work drivers
  Tuesday 24 January 2012, Bristol, UK: 12.30pm- 4pm
  Addressing the risk of poor driver eyesight is a crucial aspect of fleet safety policy and procedure. In this workshop delegates will hear from experts on the risks associated with driving and poor eyesight, and effective strategies to combat this risk such as comprehensive driver eyesight testing. A best practice case study will demonstrate how a company successfully implemented measures to tackle poor driver eyesight;
• Workshop: Reversing and blind spots
  Tuesday 7 February 2012, Leeds, UK, 12.30pm-4pm
  Addressing the risks associated with reversing vehicles and vehicle blind spots is an essential part of fleet safety policies and procedures. In this workshop, academic and practitioner speakers will look at current developments relating to these critical issues, including technological solutions such as vehicle-side cameras and additional mirrors, as well as measures such as driver training techniques. The workshop includes a vehicle demonstration of technological solutions and a demonstration of a driver education programme to raise awareness of how cyclists can be hidden in blind spots. In addition, a leading fleet manager will present a case study of how they have implemented some of these techniques successfully;
• Conference: Best of best the 9th annual Fleet Safety Forum conference
  Tuesday 28 February 2012, Cranmore Park, Birmingham
  Hear good practice case studies from winners of Fleet Safety Forum Awards and discuss developments in policy, fleet and road safety research, and technology;
• WebEx: Managing road risk: back to basics
  Wednesday 28 March 2012.
  Reviewing your fleet safety policies and procedures and making the business case for fleet safety to the board.

For more details or to book onto any of these events contact Brake on 01484 559909, www.brake.org.uk or admin@brake.org.uk

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And finally…

Paragon Group has announced it is to extend its existing support of Junior World Champion and Olympic hopeful, John Paul, throughout 2012.

One of the UK’s most promising track sprint cyclists, John Paul has recently been accepted into the Great British Olympic Academy for track sprint, a programme for Olympic hopeful athletes.

Neil Burrows, Group Sales & Marketing Director, Paragon said: “We are extremely proud to continue supporting John Paul in the run up to the 2012 Olympics. John Paul’s achievements this year prove he has the potential to be selected to compete for Great Britain in London 2012 and ultimately bring home the medals.”

John was accepted on to the British Cycling Olympic Talent Team programme in 2007 before progressing to the Olympic Development Programme for track sprint in 2009 and the Great Britain Olympic Academy last month.

John Paul said: “I am delighted that Paragon is continuing to support in 2012. I covered approximately 30,000 miles in the UK last year travelling to and from races and the continued support will certainly enable me to continue to do this. I am grateful for the support show by Paragon and for recognising my potential, which has certainly increased by confidence and enabled me to concentrate on achieving my dream of becoming an Olympic champion.”

We here at Fleet Directory wish John Paul every success in his training and bid for Olympic glory.

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And so that is it for another seven days. We hope you have found our weekly round-up convenient and informative and we look forward to bringing you all the best news in one place once again next week. Don’t forget to share your views on any of the above stories in our comments box below. Until then, drive safely and considerately, not only because of current weather conditions, but for fellow drivers who may be still be relatively new to the road…

The road safety charity will hold its first workshop of the year in Bristol on Tuesday 24 January, looking into the issue of eyesight and employees who drive as part of their job.

“Poor driver eyesight is a crucial aspect of fleet safety policy and procedure,” reads a statement from Brake.

The ‘Look Sharp’ workshop will feature talks from experts on the risks associated with driving and poor eyesight, and how comprehensive driver eyesight testing can combat this risk. A best practice case study will outline how a company successfully implemented measures to tackle poor driver eyesight.

A workshop in Leeds the following month will address reversing vehicles, blind spots, and the associated risks.

As another essential part of fleet safety policies and procedures, the event will include a vehicle demonstration of technological solutions and a demonstration of a driver education programme to raise awareness of how cyclists can be hidden in blind spots. Speakers will look at recent technology such as vehicle-side cameras and driver training techniques as possible remedies.

Later in February, Brake’s Fleet Safety Forum will hold its 9th annual ‘Best of the Best’ conference in Birmingham. Comprising good practice case studies from winners of Fleet Safety Forum Awards, the conference on 28 February will also present the opportunity to discuss developments in policy, fleet and road safety research, and technology.

March sees Brake head online with a WebEx conference focussed on road risk management.

Chalked in for 28 March, the web conference will ponder the aspect of reviewing fleet safety policies and procedures and making the business case for fleet safety to the board.

Details like cost and time are to follow but to book on the other events, log on to Brake.org.uk or contact 01484 559909 or admin@brake.org.uk.

Following this week’s statement from the Chancellor of the Exchequer, ACFO chairman Julie Jenner made the organisations feelings quite clear on more than one point.

On the matter of fuel duty Jenner stated, “The intensive business and consumer lobby against fuel duty increases when corporate and private budgets are under so much pressure meant the Chancellor had no choice but to cancel the January increase.

“By cutting the proposed August 2012 duty increase to 3p a litre from 5p a litre I think he has tried to appease the protests but has also brought himself time to see how the economy is performing in eight months. We are sure he will look again at fuel duty in the spring Budget.

“However, while we are pleased that the Chancellor will not press ahead with the 3p a litre January increase, fleets, business drivers and private motorists are no better off. Fuel prices remain extremely high so it would have been more helpful if he had relieved pressure on business and private fuel budgets by cutting duty.”

Jenner continued on to the subject of road building, stating: “Successive Governments have severely under invested in the nation’s road network. Although the Government collects more than £40 billion a year in motoring-related taxes less than a quarter of that cash is reinvested in roads and other transport schemes.

“Congestion costs businesses money, but the promised projects will take years and years to come to fruition. While we welcome the infrastructure investment, it is long over due.
“However, while few will oppose plans to ‘get Britain moving’, all drivers must continue to put up with continuing congestion on roads across the country for a long time to come. As a result, congestion will cost businesses money in delayed appointments and meetings and the late delivery of goods.”

Under-investment of road building has also been high on the agenda for ABD this week who have highlighted the ‘Cook Report’ as containing Trojan horses, hidden amongst possible useful suggestions to tackle this problem. It accuses the writer of the report of having a ‘Euro Vision’ to put a toll system in to place to pay for new major roads and possibly extend this to cover all local roads.

ABD chairman Brian Gregory commented: "The report’s author seems to have a short memory. It’s only a few years since nearly 2 million people signed the famous petition against national road pricing. The public is massively against it, but it seems that some people won’t listen.

"Britain’s drivers already pay through the nose – roughly £50 billion each year in taxes in return for about £8 billion in roads investment. Investment in relieving our congested roads has been paid for several times in advance. When families everywhere are feeling the pinch on motoring costs, there is absolutely no case for adding to our tax burden. The Transport Secretary, Justine Greening, says she will study the full report before commenting. These proposals are nothing less than ‘highway robbery’ and she must reject them outright."

Do you agree with ACFO’s and the ABD’s stance on road building? Is a purse of £8 billion per year too small? Or do we need to not look a Trojan gift horse in the mouth? We’d love to hear your views.

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Brake are getting into the festive season, but not how you might think. The road safety charity are calling on drivers to pledge to their ‘Not a drop, not a drag’ campaign and welcome the police crackdown on drink and drug drivers by new ACPO lead on road safety DCC Suzette Davenport.

Ellen Booth, Brake senior campaigns officer, explained: “We fully support this vital crackdown on deadly and selfish drink and drug drivers. Every Christmas, and indeed every week of the year, many families are confronted by the death of a loved one, or a terrible injury, caused by drivers wilfully taking these appalling risks. We urge drivers to imagine the consequences for a second and realise it’s never worth chancing your life and other people’s. Our simple message is not a drop, not a drag – please make a pledge to never drive on any amount of alcohol or drugs.”

Brake has revealed that this summer indicated a rise in drink driving, with the police reporting that more drivers were found over the limit compared to last year. That is why Brake also calling on the government to get tough on drink and drug driving by:

• Slashing the drink drive limit to 20mg alcohol/100 ml blood, in line with evidence that even very small amounts impair driving;
• Introducing police powers for random breath testing;
• Introducing roadside drugs testing and a law on driving on illegal drugs to make it easier to catch and prosecute drug drivers;
• Making roads policing a national policing priority, so resources are put into higher levels of roads policing to catch drink and drug drivers.

Visit ‘Not a drop, not a drag’ to find out more about Brake’s campaign.

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The IAM is also leading a campaign on festive drinkers with a call for drink driving warning on all labels of alcoholic drinks.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “Drink driving is an epidemic on our roads. Every one of 2009’s drink-driving incidents was preventable. That 380 people died in crashes that year, simply because they didn’t heed the warnings and the law, is tragic.

“We want to see clear drink driving warnings that are just as hard hitting as health warnings on cigarette labels. If the drinks industry softens the road safety and health messages on its labels then the case for a compulsory system of labelling would be compelling. The message to everyone is don’t drink and drive.”

The alcohol industry has already agreed to provide health information on 80 per cent of alcohol labels on UK shelves by 2013. However, with one in five motorists killed in crashes during one year (2009) being over the legal limit, IAM believes that drink driving warnings should be included.

Their top tips for avoiding temptation altogether are:

1. Beware the quick drink after work. One pint with your colleagues might seem harmless but it can quickly turn into two, then three. Shell out for a taxi, get the train, or walk – it’ll cost much less than a drink-drive charge or accident;
2. Ignore peer pressure. Your friends or family have had a few and don’t want to pay for a taxi. You have your car but have been drinking. Just say no – it’s your licence at stake;
3. Driving with good intentions to a party, to a pub or to a restaurant and then just having a drink or two, puts more pressure on you to risk driving home, even if you’re not sure whether you are below the limit;
4. You are likely to be breathalysed if you are involved in a collision, even if it is not your fault. Whether or not you think you’re fit to drive, don’t take the chance or somebody else’s mistake might become your problem;
5. Even if you resist and don’t drive home, a drinking session the night before could put you over the legal limit the morning after. Bear this in mind and make alternative transport plans for the next day – don’t just risk it;
6. Many accidents involve pedestrians who have been drinking. When walking home after a few drinks, take extra care, and if you’re driving be aware that pedestrians may be the worse for wear.

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And finally… The 2011 Fleet Hero Awards were announced this week by the Energy Saving Trust, with winners in the public and private sector revealed as well as the grey fleet management award.

Winner of the Best Public Sector Fleet category for the second year running was HM Revenue & Customs who achieved a 33% reduction in carbon emissions from business travel during 2010/11, saving 8,000 tonnes of CO2. It shrank overall travel mileage by 23 million miles and road mileage by 15 million miles.

Congratulations also go to Addison Lee Plc who won the Best Private Sector Fleet (Large) award after demonstrating a 10 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions; the win so much sweeter after finishing as runner-up last year.

And last but no means least the Lake District National Park Authority have taken the Grey Fleet Management award as it has achieved a 58 per cent reduction in the grey miles claimed by staff, equating to a reduction of over 120,000 miles over the last three years. This also translates into fuel savings of £78,000 and CO2 savings of 40 tonnes.

We here at Fleet Directory salute you and your green efforts and will be unpegging the office tea bag to have a celebratory brew in your honour.

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So until next week dear readers please drive safely and don’t forget to share your views on the stories above with us all, using our comments box below. We look forward to reading them. TTFN.

From the 127 fleet operators surveyed, it was also uncovered that 4 in 10 companies (42%) don’t offer eyetests for fleet drivers either despite three-quarters of drivers supporting the notion of introducing compulsory eyesight testing every five years.

The road safety charity is holding a one-day workshop, scheduled to take place in Bristol on 24 January 2012, for fleet managers and road safety professionals to hear from experts on what employers need to be doing and why, with practical advice from experts and a best-practice case study.

According to recent research, one in six drivers cannot see well enough to pass the basic eyesight test and Roz Cumming, Brake’s Development Manager, said that even the most experienced driver would be compromised by poor eyesight.

“As a charity that supports families devastated by road deaths and injuries, we recognise how vital it is to ensure all drivers have good eyesight,” she explained.

“It’s an easily manageable risk and we urge fleet managers to act by attending the workshop, and joining the Fleet Safety Forum giving them access to our essential resources to help them. To make our roads safer, we need comprehensive eyesight tests carried out regularly throughout people’s driving careers.”

Specsavers is working with Brake to highlight the issue. Director of Strategic Alliances Jim Lythgow added: “Good eyesight is a prerequisite of safe driving. Research shows that employers are just not aware how good their employees’ eyesight is for driving, and this is a major worry.

“We are delighted to support Brake in raising awareness of this important issue.”

Click here for more info on January’s workshop.