Following the reports this week that 85 per cent of drivers admit to ‘amber gambling’ I feel it is about time that this illegal offence is brought to the public’s attention.

The fact that such a large number of drivers have admitted to committing this offence is enormously relevant for many companies where employees drive for business purposes. Companies have a duty of care and must take seriously the safety of their staff and the other road users they encounter. In addition to the serious safety concern, ‘Amber Gambling’ reflects badly upon a company’s brand and drivers risk prosecution, fines and points on their licence.

Companies can take a proactive stance against this trend by educating their drivers about the consequences of reckless driving. Licence checking and driver assessment can be used to identify high risk drivers. Driver training is an effective way of ensuring that employees are aware of the risks involved and that addresses the safety of their drivers and the public.

Phil Peace
Director of Sales
Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions