Fleet Risk Consultants

Having spent a significant time driving in the early hours recently, or at least before the sun has emerged from its slumber, I have noticed an increasing number of vehicles driving without lights or with defective lights.

Now defective lights are an obvious defect, but it usually means that the driver has got other defects too. So spend a little time doing the following, oh and make sure your staff are doing this as it could cause you as a business owner some issues too.

Tyres – You need to check the tread depth, tyre pressure (you may need the handbook for this bit) and the general condition of the tyre. I recommend that you have no less than 2mm of tread on your tyres. You should check your tyres every month.

Lights – Take the time to check all of your lights on your vehicle. You should also invest in a spare bulb set too. Remember that your lights are there to ensure you are seen rather than to see where you are going in most cases. You should check your lights every week.

Oil – You should check your oil weekly.

Water – You should also make sure that the water levels are correct.

Screen wash – You should maintain the strength of your screen wash and remember an empty screenwash bottle is an offence.

Wipers – If your wipers are not clearing the screen you are putting yourself in danger and the worst part is you won’t see the danger coming.

If you are unsure then contact a professional for advice.

Nigel Grainger
Senior Consultant

Fleet Risk Consultants

With this week being National Road Safety Week it is a good time to review this topic.

You may be asking what drink and drugs has to do with the Corporate Manslaughter Legislation, and you may be surprised to find out that the lack of a policy on drink and drugs could land you in serious trouble or even lead to a trip to crown court facing a charge under various pieces of legislation.

If you have even the slightest suspicion that a member of your team is abusing substances or even have turned up to work under the influence then you have both a legal and a moral obligation to act.

On the same topic, as we are in the run up to Christmas, if you are planning to have a staff party at which your business is paying for some of the drinks or food. You need to ensure that you have adequate measures to ensure your staff do not drive home from the event nor do they drive to work the following morning.

If you are unsure of your obligations then please call our team for some free advice, before you get it wrong.

Nigel Grainger

Senior Consultant

Fleet Risk Consultants