A survey carried out by the Institute of Advanced Motorists back in February found that as many as 75 per cent of working drivers receive neither an assessment of their driving skills nor any training. Almost as many were not given any guidance on simple vehicle safety checks, with 64 per cent not even required to pass the basic eyesight test.

More worrying still, one in five admitted they had used a mobile phone while driving, and almost half cited work-related pressure as a reason for losing their temper or breaking the speed limit.

These are worrying findings, borne out by the statistic that about a third of all road deaths involve those driving while at work.

Employers who expect their staff to drive need to wake up to these statistics. We all need to remember that the legal requirement to maintain a safe system of work for employees continues to apply when our staff are behind the wheel. We need to remember that, sometimes, employees are required to drive large and unfamiliar vehicles and that someone who is qualified as a fitter, mechanic or sales executive isn't necessarily a professional driver also.

Employers are liable for the loss and damage which results from accidents caused by employees driving on work business. While of course this liability is covered by insurance, an accident which arises from the employer's failure to provide adequate training is likely to lead to personal injury and employment-related claims on or on behalf of the driver employee. Insurance excesses and premiums will rise, the Health and Safety Executive will investigate and may well prosecute, and having employees kill or die on duty is never very good for business.

As a very basic minimum, employers need to consider the risks posed by driving employees. A couple of simple checks can vastly reduce these risks. Does the employee have an appropriate driving licence? Can he or she pass the "number plate" eyesight test? Has he been warned not to use his phone while driving, and does he need any vehicle training?

* Stephen Elliott is a solicitor in the employment team of North-East law firm Ward Hadaway. He can be contacted on 0191-204 4000 or by email at stephen.elliott@wardhadaway.com

Published: 25/04/2006