News

Please find below a variety of news stories concerning occupational driving, workplace safety, duty of care and driver safety generally.

Winter weather driving tips from IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive

With snow and ice affecting many parts of the country, IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive, the leading occupational driver training companies, have issued advice for safe winter driving and urged employers to make sure staff are fully prepared.

Skidding on ice is the main concern for those driving in freezing conditions.

Simon Elstow, IAM Head of Training said: “When driving in snow, get your speed right - not too fast so that you risk losing control, but not so slow that you risk losing momentum when you need it – and brake, steer and accelerate as smoothly as possible.”

“Start gently from stationary, avoiding high revs. If you get yourself into a skid the main thing to remember is to take your foot off the accelerator and steer, never use the brake.”

More winter driving advice for the IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive:

• Double or even triple your normal stopping distance from the vehicle in front.
• Plan your journey around busier roads as they are more likely to have been gritted.
• On motorways stay in the clearest lane where possible, away from slush and ice. Keep within the clear tyre tracks if you can.
• Stay in a higher gear for better control.
• As conditions improve make sure your foglights are only on if necessary – they can dazzle other drivers.
• In falling snow use dipped headlights to make yourself visible to others (especially pedestrians)

Preparation

• Check the weather in advance – don’t ignore police warnings about closed roads.
• Make sure you have an emergency kit so you are prepared in the event of a breakdown. This should include a torch, food for energy, water and a blanket. On longer journeys always let someone know you have set off and tell them your planned route.
• Ensure your mobile is charged up so you can make a call in an emergency – but don’t use it when driving!
• Do a proper winter check of your vehicle, looking at washer fluid, de-icer/scraper and tyres.

IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive welcome speed limit consultation

IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive welcomes the government consultation on speed limits, which was announced today.

Neil Greig, IAM Director of Policy and Research, said: “Most road accidents are caused by drivers making mistakes at speeds below the speed limit, and it would be naive to assume a speed limit reduction alone will totally remove all deaths and injuries from our roads. Better driving standards and road awareness as well as improvements in road engineering would make the most sustainable differences.”

There have been over 2,500 deaths on the road in the last year, 1 in 3 of those deaths is somebody driving to or for work. IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive urge employers to educate their employees on driving safety. Even though there’s been some progress in vehicle engineering and road design, driver behaviour is a key factor in causation of road deaths.

Mr Greig continues: “Driving behaviour encompasses many different facets including attitude, perception, skills levels, knowledge, and experience. These all need to be addressed when it comes to reducing business driver risk. Employers have a duty of care to their employees. They need to be aware of the wider behavioural issues that can lead to them being involved in a collision.”

Many business drivers are driving long hours, which increase the risk of a collision due to tiredness and lack of concentration. Drivers need to understand the need to adapt their driving to the circumstances they are in. Employers should take steps through driver risk assessment and training to ensure there are safer business drivers on the road.

IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive supports clear guidance to Councils which gives them the flexibility to implement local solutions for local road safety problems.

IAM Drive & Survive sponsor fleet safety award

This year Drive & Survive, the leading training organisation dedicated to enhancing fleet safety, sponsored the Fleet Safety Award 2009. It was presented at the recent Prince Michael International Road Safety Awards on 8 December in London.

In the space of approximately 12 years, Tesco.com - a Driving for Better Business Champion has grown from one van to its current fleet of 2,200 vehicles and 8,000 drivers. The introduction of Telematics has afforded the company an opportunity to analyse and benchmark the performance of its drivers and vehicles. The most significant impact has been the development of training strategies. As a result of the implementation of Telematics technology Tesco.com have reduced their van damage by 90%.

Zurich Financial and Royal Mail also received awards sponsored by Drive & Survive.

Low sun warning to business drivers

Low winter sun and dirty windscreens mean there is more risk of dangerous dazzle to business drivers at this time of year than any other, says IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive.

Simon Elstow, IAM Head of Training, said: “Dirty windscreens make it even more difficult for drivers to see in the low sun we get every morning and late afternoon in the winter months. Your heater is often on demist, blowing traffic fumes, suspended oil and smoke onto the inside of the screen which quickly builds to a film of grime which is a major cause of glare.

"The wet roads mean more dirt on the other side of the screen, too, and a low sun highlights scratches and grime making it even more of a problem,” added Mr Elstow.

“The best solution is to clean your screen inside and out, with water or glass cleaner at least once a week, drying with paper or leather.”

More low sun advice from the IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive:

• Always keep a good pair of sunglasses in the car – they really help.
• If you can, try and look to the side of the sun rather than straight at it (this works for headlights too).
• If you can’t see, do the obvious thing and slow down accordingly, keeping an eye on the vehicle behind, in case the following traffic doesn’t see you against the sun.
• If the sun is behind you, it’s in the eyes of drivers coming towards you – be aware they might not see you.
• Low sun behind can dazzle you through your mirrors so be ready to dip the mirror and check over your shoulder for vehicles in your blind spot.
• Keep your washer bottles topped up with a good quality screenwash.
• Change your windscreen wipers every year.

Business drivers: don't wing it with energy drinks

High mileage business drivers who use “high energy” drinks to keep them going have been warned by leading occupational driver risk companies, Drive & Survive and IAM Fleet, that there could be a hidden danger in relying on caffeine drinks which can lead to increased weariness behind the wheel.

The US National Safety Commission (NSC) has issued an alert for those driving under caffeine intoxication, similar to warnings associated with drinking alcohol and driving. Research has shown that just an hour after drinking a highly caffeinated and sugared drink, tired drivers can experience serious lapses in concentration and slower reaction times as the drink wears off.

Excessive caffeine consumption can cause similar symptoms to alcohol intoxication according to the American Food and Drink Administration (FDA) which has attributed symptoms such as irritability, nervousness, irregular or rapid heartbeat, muscle twitching and rambling speech to what it terms “caffeine intoxication”.

Managing Director of Drive & Survive, Seb Goldin, said: “Energy drinks are good as a quick fix, but they’re no substitute for regular breaks. Having a high-caffeine drink is a one-off hit – you can’t repeat it, as this type of drink does not produce the same effect in a couple of hours’ time.”

“Tiredness affects reaction times and concentration and if you fall asleep at the wheel the results are nearly always fatal. The classic fatigue related crash usually involves a high speed impact with a roadside object or an oncoming vehicle - two of the least survivable crashes even in the most modern of cars.” Goldin said.

In order to beat fatigue on long drives Drive & Survive advise:

• Businesses should carry out regular driver risk assessments using an appropriate tool
• As a duty of care, businesses should ensure that their driving at work policies reflect the impact that fatigue can have on drivers
• Stop every two hours for at least 20 minutes
• Consider stopping overnight on long-haul journeys
• Share the driving with someone else – don’t do it all yourself if you don’t have to
• If you start to feel tired while driving, don’t rely on air con or an open window: find a safe place to stop and rest
• Only set off on your journey when you are properly refreshed
• Fatigue does not suddenly affect you - if you start to feel tired it is your responsibility to do something about it

Business drivers avoid tyresome fines, by frequent checks

When planning a long drive, business drivers should take a quick but thorough look at your tyres says leading occupational driver risk training company IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) Fleet and Drive & Survive. This may save costly fines and avoid the risk of a potential accident.

Managing Director of Drive & Survive, Seb Goldin says: “As tyres have only the area of the sole of your shoe in touch with the road at any one time, it’s a safety ‘no-brainer’ to keep them in top condition - extra care is needed in autumn as sudden heavy showers can profoundly affect tyre performance”.

According to the IAM, around 10 per cent of cars on the road have at least one tyre with an illegal tread depth. This reduces braking effectiveness; increases risk of collision, and could lead to a hefty fine and points on your licence.

Goldin continues: “As a duty of care to their employees, it’s advisable for businesses to check that employees regularly check their tyres. Employers should make them aware of the safety implications and potential risks involved if they do not keep them in good condition.”

Stopping distances double on wet roads and the risk of a skid can be trebled if the tread depth is only at the legal minimum of 1.6 mm. This risk increases seven-fold when the tread depth is less than 0.5mm. And if you have to brake hard on one of the 10 per cent of road surfaces with below average skid resistance, the skid risk rises by around 50 per cent.

IAM tyre advice

Inspect

• Check the general state of the tyre for cuts, bumps and uneven wear: worn shoulders indicate under inflation; if worn in the centre indicates over inflation and wear on one side indicates wheel misalignment
• Check the tyre air pressure (an IAM survey found that only 18 per cent of men and 4 per cent of women check tyre pressures weekly)
• Underinflated tyres affect road grip, increase fuel consumption and tyre wear, and in hot weather they’re more likely to suffer a ‘blow out’

Adjust the tyre pressure

• Check that your tyres are correctly inflated (ideally when they’re cold)

Know the law

• The penalty for driving with one illegal tyre is a fine of up to £2,500 and three points on your licence.
• While the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, consider replacing the tyres soon after the tread depth reaches 3mm, and always replace them once the tread is down to 2mm

Fitting new tyres

• When replacing two worn tyres, the new ones should be fitted to the same axel, preferably the rear wheel
• Also make sure the tyres are suitable for the vehicle and the wheels they are being fitted to

Drive & Survive launches risk management tool to flush out hidden “grey fleet” drivers

One of the UK’s leading providers of Driver Risk Management (DRM) solutions, Drive & Survive has today 22 July, launched a new online programme, to offer businesses a simple and cost effective solution to managing the so called ‘grey fleet’.

Any employee of a company that uses a privately owned or hired vehicle for business use is part of a company’s grey fleet. It’s estimated that more than half of all public sector miles are ‘grey fleet’ journeys. If not managed properly, businesses could suffer the legal and financial effects of failing to manage the grey fleet to the same standards as other company cars and expose their employees to health and safety breaches.

“Few companies with ‘grey fleets’ understand the potential consequences if a privately-owned car being driven for business is involved in a crash. As well as the driver being questioned, the company could face investigation into their at-work driving management policies and procedures,” said Drive & Survive Managing Director Seb Goldin.

“The Grey Fleet is notoriously difficult to quantify. We’ve developed Grey Track to help make the management of this previously complicated fleet sector, into a process that’s simple, quick to implement, economical, and ensures a company fulfils its employer duty of care obligations,” he said.

Grey Track’s online grey fleet programme enables drivers of grey fleet vehicles to record personal driver information and details about vehicles being used for businesses.

All information is stored in a secure database that can be accessed and updated by the individual driver. Automatic email reminders are issued to drivers when renewals for vehicle insurance, MOT, tax are due. Companies can also access this information to track the status of each driver, in addition to the regular management of information provided by Drive & Survive.

“All company drivers are treated the same in at-work driving legislation and therefore minimising the risk of all drivers, including the difficult to manage ‘grey’ fleet, is essential,” said Goldin.

Companies that use Grey Track benefit by receiving an inexpensive solution from leading experts in DRM. Outsourcing the business process saves companies time and money and demonstrates a duty of care to employees.

The need for employers to demonstrate their duty of care is underpinned by the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act which came into force in 2008, as well as the pre-existing Health & Safety At Work Act and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations.

“Grey Track provides an auditable trail for organisations to ensure that all drivers and their vehicles are compliant with personal driving and vehicle requirements,” he said.

“Drive & Survive is a leading occupational driving organisation that provides a comprehensive range of driver risk management services. Grey Track is an effective means to manage the driver and vehicle information of a grey fleet. This information can then be further complemented through an overall DRM package which provides support to develop the driving skills of a business driver,” he continued.

“Training can then be provided to ensure the driver is suitably skilled to complete their role safely, and continuous monitoring and support of all these factors is provided.”

According to the research from Drive & Survive, the proportion of car fleets that are company-owned has fallen gradually over the past 20 years and now comprises fewer than nine per cent of all cars on the road.

“This research shows that, due to a decrease in company-owned cars, there have been more people receiving 'cash for car' funding and consequently an increase in the grey fleet can be expected,” said Goldin.

For more information on Drive & Survive’s Grey Track programme - click here or contact enquiries@drivesurvive.co.uk or 0870 128 6500.

Smooth cash flow with a holistic approach to driver risk management

A unique system providing occupational drivers with access to a total Driver Risk Management (DRM) programme for a fixed monthly fee, no matter what training is provided, has been launched by leading UK occupational driver training organisation Drive & Survive.

“In the DRM ensure programme, all drivers will undergo an online risk assessment to determine their risk rating, based on a combination of their driving environment, attitude and behaviour,” said Drive & Survive Managing Director Seb Goldin.

“Further training is then tailored to an individual driver’s needs using a range of professional Drive & Survive online and on-road training products, and can even be coupled with other services such as a driver licence checking.”

And no matter what this further training is per individual driver, the cost of the DRM ensure programme is the same price for all enrolled.

“DRM ensure gives employees access to a comprehensive DRM programme, for a fixed cost over the term of the package. For fleet and health and safety managers, this means all employees receive the appropriate level of training, and resources are targeted to those identified as being at greatest risk. For finance managers, this means costs can be accurately forecasted and managed,” said Mr Goldin.

“The DRM programme is fully managed by Drive & Survive, with consistent and regular management information provided to demonstrate progress and highlight risk and areas which require improvement. Accurate records also provide an audit trail for all drivers, demonstrating adherence to company health and safety policies.”

A leading fashion and home-ware retailer has reaped the benefits of this customised approach over the last year, demonstrating how companies managing fleet costs in challenging economic times can now effectively forecast and manage expenditure through a holistic solution to driver risk management.

“The retailer, with more than 1000 drivers enrolled in DRM ensure, has found the targeted approach and fixed costing to be the key benefits of the programme,” said Mr Goldin.

“Each programme is created on a bespoke basis to a client’s requirements. The programme for this client, which includes a combination of online, on road and license checking services, has delivered both excellent value and a fully auditable system for all drivers.

“As advocates for road safety, we believe safety should remain a priority not jeopardised by financial constraints. Training is an investment and cutting back is a false economy. Trained employees can not only save money, but also support health and safety commitments.

“Fixing training costs smoothes cash flow and can help companies sustain essential training and manage the associated costs,” said Mr Goldin.

“DRM ensure provides cost stability with access to a large range of professional training services that can specifically target an individual’s needs.”

Drive & Survive is the occupational driver training division of the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists), training more than 35,000 drivers per year since 1985.

For more information about DRM ensure please click here

Ten year road safety blueprint welcomed by Drive & Survive

Ambitious Government proposals for road safety targets over the next 10 years – with important new targets to save lives which will benefit at-work drivers - have been welcomed by the UK’s leading occupational driver training organisation, Drive & Survive.

“The Department for Transport’s new targets are impressive. There is no hint of complacency and we believe that the declared aspiration - to have the safest roads in the world by 2020 - is excellent,” said Drive & Survive Managing Director Seb Goldin.

“The proposals show we can expect a more rigorous examination of what works for road safety in these areas, and what doesn’t.

“The Government’s target to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured by 33 per cent will take dedicated effort, and with one third of road deaths involving at-work drivers, a comprehensive driver risk management programme for employees is a key lever to deliver the strategy,” said Mr Goldin.

To further support a focus on the reduction of road crashes involving at-work drivers, the DfT today also published a programme of measures to reform the driver training and testing process in response to the Learning to Drive consultation conducted last year.

Almost 7000 people responded to the radical plans and the Driving Standards Agency will now review the training and testing process for new drivers, as well as develop a new vocational qualification for van drivers, helping them to enhance the skills they need to drive for work.

“Specific skills are required to safely control different vehicles. A driver who may be used to a car may not be as comfortable in a larger van. There is often no rear-view mirror and the vehicle is usually wider and therefore more difficult to control, for example.

“At-work drivers also regularly drive in new environments and are exposed to long periods of driving which they may not be used to. A focus on adjusting driving attitudes and behaviours is also important in the overall driver training process,” said Mr Goldin.

The Department for Transport (DfT) also reported that the economic downturn will mean safer vehicle technology currently installed in new vehicles will take longer to trickle down to other vehicles, as fleets slow down their replacements and keep vehicles longer.

“This factor may impinge on the safety of the at-work driver and further proves that driver training should be part of a complete driver risk management programme,” said Mr Goldin.

"A joint programme of road improvements, campaigns to raise awareness, more enforcement, and encouragement to take extra training will ultimately deliver the results outlined in the proposal."

Safety in Numbers

Gathered at the IAM Parliamentary Reception in March were several road safety ministers, past and present.

From left to right: Julian Brazier MP, Transport Front Bench spokesman; Robert Key MP, former road safety minister; Jim Fitzpatrick MP, the current road safety minister; Sir George Young,MP, former Transport Secretary; David Jamieson, former road safety minister, and now an IAM Council member and Peter Bottomley MP, former road safety minister.

A further six MPs signed up to the IAM Fleet on line driving assessment, IDRA, at the event, which also saw the launch of new research into deaths of young moped riders.

MPs at the IAM reception took part in an online risk assessment of their driving - the vital first step of a DRM (Driver Risk Management) programme which identifies aspects of an individual’s driving that need development. From this, a risk rating determines further training needs, ranging from e-learning to personal on-road training to improve driving skills.

At the event, two MPs were awarded IAM certificates – Owen Paterson MP, who passed his IAM advanced driving test and Bill Wiggin MP who took a motorbike assessment.

IAM training focuses on risk avoidance as well as improving fuel economy, or a combination of the two. Safer driving techniques can lead to more fuel efficient driving and contribute to lowering CO2 emissions.

Speaking before the IAM reception, Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick expressed concern that people who drive for work are over-represented in road casualty figures.

MPs support IAM commercial initiative to lower £1.6bn cost of ‘at-work’ road deaths

(Picture Caption) Drive & Survive Managing Director Seb Goldin (second from left) and Minister Paul Clark (third from left) with MPs at the road safety initiative launch event

Deaths while driving for work cost the UK more than £1.6bn in 2007. MPs of all parties are backing a road safety initiative launched by the occupational driver training division of the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) on 14 January 2009 to cut this cost by reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured on UK roads.

By completing a Driver Risk Management (DRM) programme to assess and improve their driving, MPs will be setting an example for businesses of all sizes to manage the risks associated with their employees who drive for work.

Drive & Survive Managing Director Seb Goldin said: “Around a third of all road accidents involve people driving for work, and for every death, there is an associated cost to the economy which can total billions of pounds each year. This is not acceptable and is why we are asking MPs to take the lead in reducing the alarming road death rate.”

MPs will conduct an online risk assessment of their driving at the launch event - the vital first step of a DRM programme which identifies aspects of an individual’s driving that need development. From this, a risk rating determines further training needs, ranging from e-learning to personal on-road training to improve driving skills.

Drive & Survive training focuses on risk avoidance as well as improving fuel economy, or a combination of the two. Safer driving techniques can lead to more fuel efficient driving and contribute to lowering CO2 emissions.

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick is concerned that people who drive for work are over-represented in road casualty figures.

“Managing driving for work is as much common sense as running any other part of a business - training and planning of all aspects of operations go a long way to bringing avoidable costs under control.

“In creating a work-related road safety ethos as part of their existing health and safety policies, employers not only make savings that can be delivered straight to their bottom lines – they also save lives, playing their part in cutting the number of needless tragedies that take place on our roads every day,” said Mr Fitzpatrick.

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of the State for Transport, Paul Clark, spoke at the function in support of the initiative.

"Just as with safety issues generally, it takes time to educate and convince a workforce of the value of work-related road safety. It is an ethos that needs to be driven from the top down and implemented at every level.

"But once embedded and the economic savings fully recognised, employers can become zealous converts. That also helps to save casualties.

"Although I cannot be seen to endorse any particular commercial product, I am nonetheless pleased to see the IAM’s promotion of this sort of assessment programme. More choice for employers in this area can only help drive home Government’s messages about at work driving and go towards reducing all too many tragic deaths and serious injuries," said Mr Clark.

The need for employers to demonstrate their duty of care is underpinned by the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 which came into force in April 2008.

Mr Goldin added, “Recent changes to legislation should encourage employers to check whether their company’s systems and processes for managing health and safety are adequate. Driver training is an essential part of this.

“MPs have taken the lead in demonstrating their duty of care as an employer in their local constituencies by offering this driving assessment to their staff.

“Driver training brings significant employee safety improvements and quantifiable financial benefits, making it a self-funding investment.”

Media information:
Event Host David Kidney MP and Drive & Survive Managing Director Seb Goldin are available for comment by arrangement.

Photos available on request.

Drive & Survive joins with insurance broker to drive costs and risk down

Alarmed by the statistic that one in every three road deaths on UK roads last year was linked to someone at work, the UK’s leading occupational driver training business, Drive & Survive, has joined with the LFC Insurance Group to provide online driver coaching and development for the insurance broker’s fleet clients within their insurance premiums.

The professional training division of the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists), Drive & Survive lead more than 35,000 drivers through risk management (DRM) programmes each year. The DRM programme determines a driver’s ‘risk rating’ through an online assessment, which then establishes what further training is required, from e-learning to on-road training.

The LFC Armada Plus product is a unique concept that will improve the performance of motor fleets, help commercial clients by reducing associated costs, and provide an audit trail for duty of care and health and safety issues for drivers at work.

The need for companies to fulfil their duty of care as an employer and to ensure that each driver is trained with the necessary skills to complete their job in the safest means possible is an ongoing necessity, even in the current economic climate.

LFC Armada Plus was created to assist companies with fleets to ensure they are maintaining this need by funding the driver assessment and online training elements of such a programme for fleet clients. The practical side of managing the programme is also carried out by Drive & Survive through tailored on-road coaching at the client’s expense.

“Through partnerships with commercial insurance brokers like LFC Insurance, and supported by forward-thinking underwriters, Drive & Survive can provide risk management solutions to fleets included within their insurance premiums, which can help to both reduce fleet costs and fulfil duty of care obligations of employers in this challenging economic climate,” said Drive & Survive Managing Director, Seb Goldin.

“Through assessing risk and up-skilling as necessary, driver training is proven to be self-funding with the benefits also likely to flow through to an improved claims experience.

“With the insurance industry covering costs to help commercial companies provide this essential form of training, this innovative partnership can further help to reduce the alarming rate of at-work driving deaths, create a safer road environment for all road users and support companies with their duty of care as fleet operators.

“Drive & Survive is delighted to partner with the independent commercial broking group, the LFC Insurance Group, to roll out the innovative new LFC Armada Plus concept,” said Mr Goldin.

LFC Insurance Managing Director Jerry Clayton said, “By working in partnership with seven leading insurers, and Drive & Survive, we are confident that we have demonstrated our commitment to the effective risk management of motor fleets, by putting our money where our mouth is.”

MPs join with leading driving trainer to lower at work road deaths

One in every three road deaths on UK roads last year was linked to someone at work. Now the occupational driver training division of the UK’s leading road safety charity, the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) which includes the operating business Drive & Survive, has asked more than 600 Members of Parliament to take the lead to reduce this startling statistic.

By completing a Driver Risk Management programme to assess and improve their driving, MPs can set a positive example for businesses of all sizes.

The road safety initiative will be opened by Road Safety Minister, Jim Fitzpatrick MP at an event in the House of Commons Astor Suite at 13.00 hrs on 14 January 2009.

The IAM’s commercial division - which includes operating companies IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive - is the most innovative practitioner of driver risk management for business in the UK, each year training more than 35,000 at-work drivers to reduce their risk on the road.

The IAM is offering MPs the opportunity to lead the way in reducing at-work road risk in their constituency, as well as to demonstrate their duty of care as an employer, by taking part in a Driver Risk Management programme. IAM Commercial is also offering the programme at a subsidised rate to all MPs Westminster and constituency-based staff.

This will involve an online risk assessment of driving skills which will be conducted by MPs at the launch, followed by either further online learning modules or on-road one-to-one coaching with one of the IAM’s 250 highly qualified trainers nationwide. Training will be focused on both risk avoidance and improving fuel economy, or a combination of the two. Safer driving techniques can lead to more fuel efficient driving, helping contribute to lowering CO2 emissions.

A photo opportunity will be available at the launch event with the Minister and attending MPs, and a press release will be issued prior to this date for further information.

Media are invited to attend the launch event and confirmation of attendance is required. Please email press.office@iam.org.uk or call 0208 9969 777 to confirm your attendance or for any further information by Monday 22 December 2008, and full event details will be issued on receipt.

IAM Commercial announces DRM Ensure

To then offer the opportunity to UK employers to reduce the risk for the employees, IAM Commercial also announce a series of breakfast seminars in 2009 to launch DRM Ensure, an innovative driver risk management programme which can reduce costs and risk for a fixed monthly fee. Pricing starts at £5 per month, per driver, offering full online, e-learning and on-road training opportunities.

More information about the DRM Ensure breakfast series will be issued soon.

Time to change your road behaviour

Time is literally turned back this weekend as daylight savings come to an end along with the British summer. But, while many motorists relish the chance to sleep an hour longer, the UK's leading occupational driver training company Drive & Survive warns there are potential dangers that come with the hanging of clocks and increased darkness.

Motorists need to adapt their driving behaviour to accommodate for night driving conditions as the clocks change. Night falls an hour earlier, so the typical commute home from work or school will be in the dark. Night conditions make the road ahead more difficult to read and yield less information for a driver. Other road users, road signs and objects are harder to see and road conditions and edges become indistinct. Driving at night at this time of year will also be aggravated by seasonal driving hazards - rain and wind.

As night draws, people also naturally want to slow down and are more likely to grow tired. One in five motorway crashes are fatigue related.

It is also important to consider vehicle condition when driving in dark conditions. Windows (inside and out), mirrors and the lenses of lights and indicators should be kept clean regularly to give the best possible visibility. Lights must be correctly aligned and adjusted for the vehicle load - and bulbs must all work. Now is a good time to renew your windscreen wipers and top up the washer bottle with a good quality detergent.

Leaving the lights on at work or the shops will drain a car battery very quickly. It's easy to forget to switch off lights when leaving the vehicle, and an already depleted battery will be less forgiving. Check the battery is healthy or renew it now before being stranded on a wet and windy roadside.

Drive & Survive drives fleet costs down with eco-driving course

A driver training module which can improve fuel consumption by up to 25 per cent and lead to significant vehicle emission reductions has been launched today by two of the UK's leading fleet driver training companies, IAM Fleet UK and Drive & Survive - part of IAM Commercial.

With fuel prices still high and the effect of transport use on the environment under constant scrutiny, IAM Commercial has developed ecolution to help companies reduce fuel bills and their carbon footprint.

"Fuel and vehicle costs are a core part of a company's fleet expenditure. ecolution teaches simple driving techniques which are easily adopted in everyday driving behaviour, and have a significant impact on fleet running costs," said IAM Commercial Head of Training, Simon Elstow.

"ecolution includes an overview of things a driver can do to their vehicle to improve fuel consumption, such as ensuring tyres are at the correct pressure and unnecessary excess weight is removed.

"On-road training then includes repetition of the same driving route three times, with the average speed and MPG recorded in the first and final laps to compare overall MPG saving."

Driving in a more 'eco-friendly' manner has many ongoing benefits, both environmentally and economically, with the most significant of all reductions being fuel efficiency.

"Poor fuel efficiency is often a result of erratic driving behaviour and is characterised by harsh braking and rapid acceleration. ecolution develops driver hazard perception and promotes smart, smooth and also very importantly, safe driving techniques," said Mr Elstow.

"As a result of this, vehicle repair and maintenance costs are reduced which can also see an improved residual value of vehicles, as well as increasing a fleet's overall operational efficiency."

And the benefits extend to the individual driver as well.

"For a driver, ecolution training can help reduce stress levels and enhance driver satisfaction through a greater understanding of vehicle operation. Savings can also be made as the driver implements the techniques they learn when driving their personal vehicle," said Mr Elstow.

ecolution techniques can also assist companies to reduce their carbon footprint and impact on the environment by supporting a company's Corporate Social Responsibility.

Results from ecolution trials show that, for an average fleet of around 3,000 company drivers, companies could see an average annual fuel bill reduction of more than £300,000, which could also be coupled with significant CO2 savings of up to 3,000 tonnes per annum.

"This is a significant saving which demonstrates that driver training is an investment that has ongoing benefits for a company with fleet drivers," said Mr Elstow.

These savings can be calculated on ecolution's online calculator, the ecolator - located on the ecolution website at ecolution.uk.com, where vehicle type and average miles travelled annually are compared with current fuel prices to give a clear measure of current expenditure and the savings companies can make on an annual basis by implementing ecolution driving techniques.

Eco-driving techniques are a key part of advanced driving and IAM Commercial is the only UK driver training provider who are accredited by the Energy Saving Trust to teach these techniques.

"Eco-driving techniques have been a significant part of the overall safer and smarter driver training that IAM Commercial has provided for more than 20 years," said Mr Elstow.

"As leading experts in this field, the Energy Saving Trust selected IAM Commercial trainers to take this internationally renowned training course and further develop these skills, and IAM Commercial is now the only UK driver training provider who have this training."

"ecolution training features some of the key principles of advanced driving. The techniques you use to save fuel can also make you a safer driver," said Mr Elstow.

"Planning ahead, driving smoothly and keeping moving will not only save fuel in the long run, but also make you, and other road-users, more aware of your next move.

"Sticking to speed limits reduces the chances of a collision as well as minimising wind resistance which can increase fuel consumption, and ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy not only optimises fuel efficiency, but assists in your long-term safety as well.

"At a time when fuel prices are at an all-time high and companies are looking to reduce fleet operating costs, adopting simple driving techniques can provide a starting point to help reduce the effects of this," said Mr Elstow.

More information about ecolution can be found at ecolution.uk.com.

Drive & Survive moves to streamline fleet driver training services

Drive & Survive, the leading occupational driving provider, is to move its specialist driver training service from Oxfordshire to its head office in London from 18 August.

Drive & Survive is a wholly owned subsidiary of the UK’s leading road safety charity, the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists). It will now be based in West London, providing professional occupational driver training and fleet risk management solutions designed to help companies save money and protect their workforce.

The company’s driver risk management programme provides a range of services, from e-products to hands-on training, tailored to individual fleet requirements.

Managing Director of Drive & Survive, Seb Goldin, said: “The move to London allows Drive & Survive to strengthen its position as a principal driver training provider and develop our portfolio of risk management solutions. Our intention is to further improve the services we provide our clients.”

Drive & Survive has been recognised as the ‘best service provider’ and ‘best risk management company’ in trade press awards.

Previously based in Bloxham, Mr Goldin said the move is intended to be a seamless transition to Chiswick, London.

Contact details for Drive & Survive will remain the same: the main contact number is 0870 1218 339.

Media Contacts: - IAM Media Relations – 020 8996 9777

Reverse your fuel bills

Did you know you can save up to £2 of fuel per week by simply reversing your car into a parking space, so you drive away forwards? As well as positioning your vehicle into a safer position to pull away, there are many benefits to both your vehicle, and your pocket.

New data shows it takes an average five year old car a minute and a half for the engine to warm up and the most efficient way to warm it up is by driving it. Reversing out of a space when the car's engine is cold uses around 20 to 25 times more petrol in the first few seconds than it does when warm. If you do this 10 to 12 times a week that adds up to a cost of about £100 a year, not to mention the increased wear on the car's engine.

Reverse parking is also usually safer and is advised in The Highway Code. Reversing into somewhere you can see (a parking bay) rather than reversing out into somewhere you can't see (often a line of moving traffic) is much safer. It is also easier to control a car going forwards than backwards when it is first started, and attempting a potentially high risk manoeuvre such as reversing when you have just entered a car and are not concentrating fully, is more dangerous.

From a security point of view, reversing close to an object such as a wall can make it more difficult for thieves to gain access and, if you need to leave a parking space quickly for personal security reasons, driving forward provides you with better acceleration and improved vision.

Many drivers find it helpful to lower the left (nearside) mirror to provide a guide to your lateral position. Another option, where all the parking spaces run in parallel rows, is to line your car up with the space in front and reverse back in a straight line. This should automatically position you in the centre of the space - but do remember to look where you are going!

Media Contacts: - IAM Media Relations – 020 8996 9777

Kids and cars: Your holiday survival guide

The summer holidays have begun and families will soon be setting off to enjoy a week’s UK holiday break. But before the camping, theme parks and beach picnics can begin you need to get in the car and travel for hours to get there.

That’s when the real fun starts; the kids wiggling out of their seatbelts, bickering and asking “Are we there yet?”

But the journey doesn’t have to be so stressful. Drive & Survive has put together a few tips to help you when travelling on holiday with small children in the car.

Keep them occupied: Bored children tend to make more noise, distracting the driver. Take with you some things to occupy the children such as pencils or books – and electronic games are great if the volume is muted! Petrol stations often supply children’s activity packs for free so when you’re filling up ask if they have any available. Have some easy to play games ready – who’s the first to spot a yellow car?

Breaks: The Department for Transport recommends that drivers take a break every two hours; anything longer and children could become restless.

Strap them in: Children will need to be restrained in a suitable child restraint. More information about child restraints can be found on www.dft.gov.uk.

Safety child door locks: When driving down the motorway, the last thing you need is for your passenger door to fly open. Check your child locks prior to setting off.

Temperatures: Heat in cars can reach incredibly high levels and children have died from heat stroke in hot cars. Try to ensure the kids are kept cool. This will also prevent them from becoming restless and unhappy.

NOTES TO EDITORS

1. Issued by the IAM Press Office, telephone 020 8996 9625. We have an ISDN line for interviews.

2. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving and riding of more than 160,000 road users a year (full members, associates and commercial clients) in the UK and Ireland. Established in 1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving course. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging with the road-using public and influencing road safety policy. IAM Fleet, the corporate arm of the IAM, has two subsidiary companies, Drive & Survive and Fleet Ireland. It also operates IAM Pro-Drive.

3. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude. The “Driving Tips” provided by the IAM are part of our broader road safety mission and not intended as a substitute for the advanced driving course.

4. In January 2007, the IAM Motoring Trust was established as the research and advocacy arm of the IAM. The IAM Motoring Trust will undertake research, promote practical policies, act as an advocate for safer roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles and encourage responsible motoring through education and training.

IAM Fleet appoints new Head of Training

IAM Fleet, the commercial driver training arm of the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) has appointed Simon Elstow as Head of Training for its UK operations of IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive.

IAM Fleet has made the appointment as part of its commitment to provide the best advanced driver training for fleets of all sizes in the UK and overseas. The move follows the retirement of Lloyd Brown.

By promoting CPD (continuous professional development) and creating a greater awareness of road safety standards, IAM Fleet works with organisations to reduce the costs associated with occupational driving incidents and safeguard the welfare of employees who drive as part of their work activity.

An Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) and Fleet Training specialist, Mr Elstow has been involved with the IAM’s occupational training division for three years, and now ensures the standards of IAM Fleet’s national network of more than 200 highly qualified trainers are maintained at industry-best.

“Ever increasing corporate manslaughter legislation means that any member of staff driving or riding for business needs to have their safety assessed and addressed where necessary,” said Mr Elstow.

“By assisting employers and fleet managers in developing a corporate road safety culture, and designing and implementing a strategy to reduce road risk, we help them fulfil their duty of care to their employees whose work activities include driving.”

Mr Elstow said all IAM Fleet trainers are not only ADIs, they also hold an advanced driver qualification for the category of vehicle in which they provide training.

For the first time, the Head of Training post will work across the IAM Fleet Group in the UK, including Drive & Survive.

Welcoming Simon to his new role, IAM Fleet Managing Director Seb Goldin said: “Quality driving expertise may seem like an overhead to some businesses. But the benefits in terms of saving expenses quickly pay back in fuel savings and crucially preventing the crashes that blight lives.”

NOTES TO EDITORS

1.Issued by the IAM Press Office, telephone 020 8996 9777. We have an ISDN line for interviews.

2. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving and riding of more than 160,000 road users a year (full members, associates and commercial clients) in the UK and Ireland. Established in 1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving course. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging with the road-using public and influencing road safety policy. IAM Fleet, the corporate arm of the IAM, has two subsidiary companies, Drive & Survive and Fleet Ireland.

3. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude. The “Driving Tips” provided by the IAM are part of our broader road safety mission and not intended as a substitute for the advanced driving course.

4. In January 2007, the IAM Motoring Trust was established as the research and advocacy arm of the IAM. The IAM Motoring Trust will undertake research, promote practical policies, act as an advocate for safer roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles and encourage responsible motoring through education and training.

Fire fleet wins IAM accreditation

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has become the first fire fleet in the country to earn national accreditation from, the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists), for its ‘blue light’ fleet driver training programme.

The UK’s leading road safety charity and fleet training expert recognised the scheme for its focus on raising the driving standards of their fire-fighters and officers when driving to emergencies in a fire engine or an officer’s car.

Seb Goldin, Managing Director of IAM Fleet said: “Nottinghamshire is the first fire and rescue service in the country to be awarded this accreditation and has set a standard which I hope other similar organisations will wish to follow. It would be excellent if IAM were to be regarded as the national standard for driver training in the fire service, giving the public greater confidence in their emergency services.” The Nottingham fire and rescue fleet consists of 109 operational vehicles including fire engines, support vehicles, and 4x4 and crew cab vehicles.

Emergency Fire Appliance Driver (EFAD) training for Nottinghamshire fire-fighters used to be a four day course. It has now been extended to encompass 10 days of training in Roadcraft, legislation and legal exemptions, vehicle characteristics, eco driving and skid prevention and control theory. IAM has assessed the scope and level of training in the fleet against its own criteria, and given its endorsement to the course.

The Emergency Light Vehicle Driving (ELVD) course for officers responding to emergencies in cars has also been subject to similar assessment by IAM Fleet and awarded the same accreditation.

The focus for Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) was improving the quality of driver training, but there are other benefits as well. Students who do particularly well during training will be invited to become personal members of the IAM, and will be exempt from the standard IAM Advanced Driving Test. NFRS has seen its insurance premium cut by about £100,000 per year, partly thanks to its new and more comprehensive training programme.

Adrian Garner, Driver Training Manager at NFRS, led the project, and is delighted with the result of four years’ work. “A lot of people have put a huge amount of effort into redesigning our training course and I am confident that our drivers will be trained to a very high standard, whether they are driving a fire engine or an officer’s car.

“This is important for their own safety, for the safety of colleagues travelling with them, and for members of the public who may encounter them on the roads when responding to an emergency.”

Nottinghamshire’s success has already excited interest from fire and rescue services in other parts of the country, keen to find out how the courses were developed.

Andy Beale, Assistant Chief Fire Officer at NFRS, has been a member of the IAM for nearly 20 years. “This is a great achievement for us,” he said. “Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is constantly looking for ways to improve the quality of its training, and accreditation from a respected organisation such as IAM Fleet gives valuable credibility to what has been achieved.

“We are pleased to be seen as leading the way in this area, and I know that other fire and rescue services are already interested in learning from us. We look forward to being able to share our experiences with other organisations so that, collectively, we can raise the standard of emergency driving.”

For more information about the IAM’s Advanced Driving courses, please visit www.iam.org.uk.

NOTES TO EDITORS

1.Issued by the IAM Press Office, telephone 020 8996 7777. We have an ISDN line for interviews.

2. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving and riding of more than 160,000 road users a year (full members, associates and commercial clients) in the UK and Ireland. Established in 1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving course. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging with the road-using public and influencing road safety policy. IAM Fleet, the corporate arm of the IAM, has two subsidiary companies, Drive & Survive and Fleet Ireland.

3. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude. The “Driving Tips” provided by the IAM are part of our broader road safety mission and not intended as a substitute for the advanced driving course.

4. In January 2007, the IAM Motoring Trust was established as the research and advocacy arm of the IAM. The IAM Motoring Trust will undertake research, promote practical policies, act as an advocate for safer roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles and encourage responsible motoring through education and training.

Fleet managers told “no room for complacency” as road death toll drops

Driving deaths down below 3000 is a major success for road safety policy in Britain says the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists). Deaths have never been this low since national recording began in 1926. Back then there were only 1.7 million vehicles on the road, now there are over 33 million.

Seb Goldin, Managing Director of IAM Fleet and Drive & Survive, said: “There is no place for complacency from fleet managers. But national targets and the concentration on the simple message of the three ‘E’s of Education, Enforcement and Engineering have delivered safer roads than ever before.”

The Department for Transport (DfT) report ‘Road Casualties in Great Britain 2007,’ revealed today the number of people killed in road accidents fell by seven per cent from 3,172 in 2006 to 2,943 in 2007. The number of children killed fell by 20 per cent to 121.

Mr Goldin added: “The challenge now is to drive down these figures even further by targeting known high risks such as rural single carriageways, young drivers and particularly those who drive for work. Further reductions in deaths on the road will not come cheap and government must allocate more funding to road engineering schemes and actively encourage drivers to treat driving as a skill for life.”

Notes to Editors

1.Issued by the IAM Press Office, telephone 020 8996 9625, 9628 and 9629. We have an ISDN line for interviews.

2. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving and riding of more than 160,000 road users a year (full members, associates and commercial clients) in the UK and Ireland. Established in 1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving course. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging with the road-using public and influencing road safety policy. IAM Fleet, the corporate arm of the IAM, has two subsidiary companies, Drive & Survive and Fleet Ireland. It also operates IAM Pro-Drive.

3. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude. The “Driving Tips” provided by the IAM are part of our broader road safety mission and not intended as a substitute for the advanced driving course.

4. In January 2007, the IAM Motoring Trust was established as the research and advocacy arm of the IAM. The IAM Motoring Trust will undertake research, promote practical policies, act as an advocate for safer roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles and encourage responsible motoring through education and training.

5. The full Road Casualties in Great Britain: 2007 is available from the DfT website .

6. The statistics refer to personal injury accidents on public roads (including footways) which became known to the police. Figures for deaths refer to persons who sustained injuries which caused death less than 30 days after the accident.

Drive & Survive wins 2008 Business Car Risk Management Award

For the second year in a row, Drive & Survive has been awarded the BusinessCar award for best Risk Management Supplier.

Drive & Survive aims to position itself as an expertise resource, working alongside customers to help manage their business more effectively. It recognises the commercial realities of everyday life – although it obviously assists with duty of care compliance, and knows that the biggest influencer in the decision to implement a driver risk management programme will invariably be the effect it can have on fleet running cost savings.

All the awards are voted for by the readers of BusinessCar magazine, website and email newsletters, so it’s the people that are using the products on a daily basis who make the decisions.

BusinessCar Editor-in-Chief Tristan Young said: “Risk management is an increasingly important topic for business car managers and it’s clear that Drive & Survive is delivering the goods. Any well-managed fleet will be aware of the need to take every step to protect their drivers and the votes from BusinessCar readers show that Drive & Survive is giving the industry what it needs.”

Accepting the award on Drive & Survive’s behalf was Sales Manager, Ryan Brittain, who commented: “Selling safety has never been an easy task but we know, beyond any doubt, that what we do works in every area it touches and to be recognised (again) by our clients in this way really does make the efforts worthwhile. Thank you!”

New corporate risk profiling tool

Drive & Survive strategic partner RiskFrisk® has launched a new corporate risk profiling tool aimed particularly at large corporates with multiple depots, large mixed fleets and complex supply chain arrangements. Further information can be obtained at www.fleetriskprofiler.com

Drive & Survive behind the latest Ford fleet offering

Market leader Ford is the first vehicle manufacturer to offer its fleet customers an own-branded driver risk management product, which consists of online risk assessments, online E-Learning modules and on-road practical driver coaching, for a fixed fee per head

Fleet customers, even those with multi marque fleets, will be able to take advantage of the subsidised rate of £109 per driver, which will be constant irrespective of what interventions are dictated by the online assessments that each driver would initially complete.

All elements of the risk management programme, which is very similar to the ‘DRM Package’ highlighted on the Products/Hands On Training page of this website, will be provided by Drive & Survive. Even the dedicated website that drivers will log onto to complete the online aspects of the programme has been built for Ford by the Drive & Survive in-house team.

Any corporate entity with a fleet in excess of 50 vehicles, at least one of which is a Ford product, wishing to take advantage of the Ford offer should contact Drive & Survive project manager Emily Nafzger on 0870 1218339 or on emily.nafzger@drivesurvive.co.uk.

Non Ford fleets comprising less than fifty vehicles can also take advantage of this truly integrated driver risk management programme but on different terms and conditions – please contact sales support on enquiries@drivesurvive.co.uk

Corporate Manslaughter Bill update

This much publicised Bill is still making its way through the legislative process and we cannot guarantee that it will make the statute books in this term of parliament but, if it did, the stories about driver prosecutions listed below would take on a whole new meaning for those responsible for the actions of employees driving for work purposes.

Text killer

A sales executive who killed another motorist after sending text messages whilst driving has been jailed for two years.

Michael Smith of Pontypool was overtaking when he hit an oncoming car head on, killing the driver David Brown. Evidence produced in court confirmed that Smith had sent and received five text messages whilst he drove along the A492 just minutes before the crash.

There was extensive media coverage of this incident in both the local and national news and broadcast media. Had he not been self employed it is quite conceivable under new police powers that the local constabulary would have quizzed Smith’s employer about the company policy covering the correct use of a mobile phone whilst on company business.

Free consultation

You may qualify for a FREE driver risk management health check from Drive & Survive. Please click here to find out more.'

Fleet News Award for Drive & Survive We did it! Drive & Survive has won what is arguably the highest accolade in the fleet industry when it won the ‘Best Risk Management Company’ category in the 2007 Fleet News Awards in mid March. In a glittering ceremony reminiscent of the Oscars, some 1500 guests witnessed a string of fleet industry luminaries collect their much sought after trophies on stage at the Grosvenor House Hotel from TV personality Nick Ross. But it was not only Drive & Survive that was briefly centre stage on the night. The spotlight also fell on three of Drive & Survive’s largest customers that evening. Ford came out on top with the ‘Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ title; the ‘UK Fleet of the Year’ went to PriceWaterhouseCoopers and ‘Fleet Manager of the Year’ in the 401 + vehicle category went to Chuck Ives of Network Rail. Drive & Survive General Manager Andy Neale had plenty to smile about: “Whilst we are thrilled with our own result, I find it particularly gratifying that three of our larger customers received important awards too. I like to think that the work we are doing with all three companies to reduce fleet running costs and promote best practice contributed to their victories to some degree.”

Drive & Survive Marketing Manager Steve Johnson (centre) collects the Fleet News Award from Nick Ross and Penny Stoolman of Award sponsor Total Accident Management. Marketing Manager Steve Johnson (left) and General Manager Andy Neale (right) with the 'Best Risk Management Company' trophy.

Two Business Car Awards for Drive & Survive Drive & Survive has sprung a surprise on some of the larger, better-resourced fleet industry players by snatching the prestigious 'Service Supplier of the Year' category in the 2007 Business Car Awards (previously known as The Fleet Excellence Awards), which are organised by publisher Wilmington Media. Traditionally the preserve of the big brands with multi million pound turnover and armies of staff, Drive & Survive managed to elicit the support of their customers to the point where there was the largest ever vote for a single company in the 13 year history of these awards. Business Car editor, Tristan Young, commented "The Business Car Awards are a barometer for the company car market. Drive & Survive's Service Supplier win shows how important safety is to UK fleets." Drive & Survive General Manager, Andy Neale, said: "We are very grateful to the readers of Business Car, who have clearly indicated their satisfaction with the way in which Drive & Survive interacts with them. Risk management is never an easy sell-in but it becomes more palatable when you can demonstrate quantifiable financial savings, something that we continue to do for customers old and new. “2007 will be an exciting time for Drive & Survive, particularly with regards to product development, and we intend to continue with our stated aim of exceeding customer expectations.” Drive & Survive also won the 'Risk Management' category, something which has now achieved on nine occasions in the past 11 years.

Marketing Manager Steve Johnson (right) collecting the Service Supplier Award from Business Car editor Tristan Young (centre) and Veronica Whittingham of Awards Sponsors Platinum Fleet. Customer Services Manager Jay Wilson (right) collecting the Risk Management Award from Business Car editor Tristan Young