Studies show that people who drive company cars have between 30% and 40% more collisions than ordinary drivers and this risk increases for those who drive more than 40,000kms a year. And as the startling headline confirms, approximately a third of all road deaths (75 people) involve drivers who are using their vehicle for work, according to new figures revealed by the Road Safety Authority.
So why are these work related deaths happening? Are people rushing to and from their offices? Seems unlikely given the gridlock at rush hours but you never know. The stats probably relate to those who spend a considerable amount of their work day on the road. Yet, the report includes the remarkable fact that more than four in 10 companies do not issue driving guidelines. If we hope to change people’s attitude to driving, perhaps it’s time that companies became more active in this area. What do you think?
For those of us who live close to work, maybe it’s time to consider the bikes to work scheme and for those of us who will always need a car, be sure to check out AXA’s comprehensive car insurance.
I completely agree that company car drivers should be given clear and relevant driving guidelines. I’m pretty sure that health & safety legislation requires it and if we’re to follow the UK’s example on corporate manslaughter legislation you could find some company directors facing court when an employee under their care has an accident!