There has been a significant change in the driving habits of rental customers after it was revealed that many more drivers are now respecting traffic laws, such as not speeding, driving in bus lanes or illegally parking.

National Car Rental has reported a 52% decrease in the number of speeding fines incurred by its customers.

The drop came in the last quarter of 2007 and was the biggest year-on-year fall during last year.

The major drop off in speeding offences is the continuation of a trend, which saw a 26% drop in the third quarter of last year and a 29% drop in the second quarter.

In addition to respecting speeding laws, the company’s customers are also adhering to London congestion charge rules.

Fines for non-payment of the charge decreased by 38% over the last quarter of 2007 compared to the third quarter.

The number of penalties also fell in other areas. Bus lane fines dropped by 48% after an increase of 102% in the third quarter, while parking fines decreased by 14%.

“Our quarter four figures have revealed some positive results with speeding fines falling dramatically after consistent falls each quarter throughout the year,” said David Alexander operations director, National Car Rental.

“This will be welcome news to businesses concerned about driver behaviour, particularly with Corporate Manslaughter legislation strengthening in April 2008.”

The Corporate Manslaughter Act, which comes into force next month, will allow for the prosecution of companies where there has been a fatality due to a gross failing throughout the organisation in the management of health and safety.

As to the reason for the fall in the number of penalties, Mr Alexander suggested that drivers of rental vehicles are starting to realise that they are no longer anonymous and that an infringement can be tracked back to them.

“This is acting as a powerful deterrent to motorists, proved by our latest figures,” he said.