NEW mobile phones containing cameras could save fleet operators thousands of pounds by resolving disputes at the scene of an accident, according to a risk management firm.

A major source of disputes following crashes is a lack of clear evidence over how the incident happened and who might be to blame. Drivers often have to rely on crudely drawn maps and their own recollections of what happened.

But according to Pro-Drive, the new trend of mobile phones containing digital cameras allows drivers to take pictures of the accident on the spot and send them into their fleet departments. This would remove much uncertainty and avoid lengthy battles with third parties.

Graham Hurdle, Pro-Drive's managing director, said: 'For years companies have tried to encourage drivers to gather as much evidence from the scene of an accident and, in some cases, have provided a disposable camera in the glovebox. But with this new technology it won't be too long before everyone has a digital camera to hand and will be able to take pictures.'

The firm made its comments after an insurance company revealed that a disposable camera worth £10 kept in a driver's glovebox saved his company more than £3,500 in accidents costs when he was involved in a collision (Fleet NewsNet, August 21).