A SENIOR industry figure is calling for fleet managers to make the most of the new car hand-over process after new research revealed 1,200 W, X, and Y registered cars were crashed within 90 days of being insured.

Tony Leigh, chairman of the Association of Car Fleet Operators, said the study by the Co-operative Insurance Services highlighted the need for a comprehensive risk management policy.

The study, which blames the high incident rate on drivers being unfamiliar with their new cars, also found that 60 per cent or 625 of the vehicles were write-offs.

Leigh said that where possible fleet decision-makers should take time to show drivers round their new cars.

'But the onus is on the driver to make him or herself aware of the car and get to know their vehicle,' he said.

'However, in a large company with a nationwide fleet the fleet manager may not be able to personally hand over the car.Cars are often delivered straight to a driver's office and he or she may not be there when the car arrives.

'The research highlights the importance of having a comprehensive risk management strategy in place and creating a culture of safety.'