FLEET decision-makers have given their support to a number of initiatives to improve fleet safety, with many agreeing they would do more to raise standards if they became personally liable for accidents.

More than two-thirds (69%) of fleets questioned in the RAC's report, 'Driving on Company Business' say they would drive up safety standards if they were liable to prosecution.

They are also supportive of a limit on the number of hours fleet motorists can drive per day, with 77% giving the idea their backing.

However, only 42% of firms agreed with a proposal to make company car drivers automatically liable for any accident unless they had proof that they had undergone additional training to prepare them for business driving.

Just over one-third of fleets back the use of monitoring and telematics to improve safety, while 32% support compulsory 'Well Driven?'-type labels.

Mandatory company logos and telephone numbers on cars are supported by 29%, while 22% gave their support to additional exams for business drivers before they could get behind the wheel.

Simon Cashmore, managing director, corporate services at RAC Motoring Services, said: 'At the heart of our research lies the question of how seriously fleet decision-makers need to take their corporate responsibility.'

  • Driving on Company Business, costing £149, forms part of the fifteenth annual RAC Report on Motoring. The survey questioned 1,000 drivers, including 250 company car drivers, along with 250 fleet decision-makers. Further sections of the main report will be published throughout 2003. Call 0208 9172500 for details.