COMPANIES are continuing to ignore mobile phone usage in fleet policies, with latest statistics from the RAC indicating that only 20% of policies cover the issue.

Despite proposals to ban the use of mobiles while driving, companies need to address the issue immediately, according to the motoring body. Phil Chapman, managing director of insurance services at RAC Business Solutions, said: 'Companies must start thinking about introducing a mobile phone policy now, rather than being caught out by the legislation in a few months.'

Last month, the Lord Chief Justice issued new sentencing guidelines recommending that drivers known to have caused death due to using a mobile phone while driving should be given custodial sentences, creating even more of an onus to implement fleet policies.

RAC advice

Never use a hand-held mobile phone while driving

Buy, fit and always use a good hands-free system

Use the phone's features to minimise distraction, such as voicemail for incoming calls and speech dialling

Do not take or make calls when road, traffic or weather conditions are poor

Keep calls short and never argue or negotiate