New technology and tougher legislation will not reduce accidents on their own.

That was the message delegates at the Fleet News Europe Conference sent out to the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC).

ETSC project leader Gabriel Simcic told a breakout group that technologies such as Intelligent Speed Adaption, seat belt warnings and alcolocks to prevent drunk driving had the potential to reduce accidents.

But during the Q&A session, delegates said action was also needed to address driver behaviour.

In Hungary, for example, less than 70% of drivers wear seatbelts.

And alcolocks cannot yet detect drug use. Impairment due to drugs is on the increase and incidents of driving under the influence of prescription drugs outnumber illegal drugs four to one.

Michael Gwilt, managing director of DriveCam Europe said, “Much more needs to be done to address drivers’ attitudes and training.”