Businesses must be up to speed with new driving law advises driver training expert
03/09/2008
Any business that expects staff to drive for business purposes – and that includes going out to buy coffee for the boss – could fall foul of a new law, according to Chamber member Advanced Driver Training Limited. The advent of the Corporate Manslaughter Act, which came into force in April this year, has left companies vulnerable to prosecution or an unlimited fine should a fatality occur to an employee or a member of the public as the result of a road accident involving a company vehicle during working hours.
Companies will need to be able to produce documentary evidence that staff have received a formal assessment of their driving ability and any necessary remedial training. If they can't, the company could be accused of negligence and face an unlimited fine. The requirement for documentary evidence extends to driving licences, road fund tax, vehicle insurance and maintenance records on employees' own private vehicles as well as company vehicles. Despite the serious implications of the act, Advanced Driver Training Limited say many companies are unaware of the ramifications of the new law.
'Many businesses are completely unaware of their obligations under the act. It's vital business catches up though as the implications are far-reaching. It may sound stark, but prosecution or a fine could put a small company out of business.' comments Richard Carrick, who with his business partner Chris Porter runs Advanced Driver Training Limited.
Richard and Chris are now offering specialist driver training to help businesses comply with the act. Both men are experienced driver trainers and have acquired the qualifications necessary to be able to deliver a full corporate driver assessment and training services in line with Health and Safety Executive requirements.
Advanced Driver Training provides services to businesses across central and southern England with a range of corporate services including risk assessment and driver improvement, eco awareness courses and inexperienced driver courses.
Says Richard:
'Businesses really need to ensure they understand the new legislation and ensure they comply. Ignorance is no defence – businesses must act now.'
