Fleet managers across the UK need to offer their staff effective training to ensure they are as safe as possible when taking to the nation's roads, according to Steve Gale of MileageCount.

Gales’ view is also supported by the Institute of Advanced Motorist's (IAM) on-going Drive & Survive initiative, which has published research showing how seven out of ten at-work drivers have never been offered any training regarding the use of fleet vehicles.

Gale said: "At MileageCount, as part of our complete fleet management system, we offer businesses tools and advice to help them meet their duty of care responsibilities."

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "A third of accidents involve somebody driving for work and these results show that Government initiatives to enforce driver safety are simply not working."

The IAM's research showed that 72% of individuals who regularly drive for work purposes have not been given company guidance on issues surrounding road safety and motoring efficiency - this is despite 42% of respondents who stated they would welcome such training.

“By getting assistance to put in place good guidance and procedures a fleet can improve its safety record, reduce insurance, repair costs, fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions” added Gale.

Overall, just three per cent stated they had been offered such training in the past but had turned it down, while 29% said they believe they would benefit from a refresher course on the Highway Code.

Other areas where individuals noted they would benefit from additional training were shown to be fuel-efficient driving practices (welcomed by 19%), sticking to speed limits (17%) and carrying out manoeuvres and parking (14%).