New research by IAM RoadSmart in the UK has identified the most dangerous habits of company car drivers. The new data reveals bad business driver habits that could be putting motorists at risk and costing thousands. 

Data taken from more than 4,500 participants in the charity’s ‘Driving for Work’ training course revealed a series of potentially dangerous habits that are impacting both safety and fuel economy:

• 23 % of business drivers admit to tailgating other drivers by not maintaining a safe braking distance. This is a major cause of accidents and also results in increased braking that can cause increased traffic congestion. 
• Almost 33% of business drivers admitted to not checking their mirrors or blind spots, potentially endangering themselves, other drivers and more vulnerable road users like cyclists. 
• 33% of business drivers were rated as below average for gear selection appropriate to their speed.
• 34% were classed as poor for being able to manage speed and space around their vehicle.
• 19% of drivers routinely failed to change gear at the correct time, leading to unnecessary revving.

Commenting on the data, Nicholas Lyes, Policy & Standards Director at IAM RoadSmart, said, “These findings will make disappointing reading for many fleet managers who are on the frontline for ensuring safety and reducing their organisation’s cost and carbon footprint. What these results show is that bad habits creep in over time, even with good drivers.”

Nicholas added, “These actions also have cost implications, but a few small changes can make a big difference, such as eliminating over-revving and managing speed. By doing so, modestly sized fleets save tens of thousands each year. Regular top-up driver training is the best way to maintain standards, keep safe on the roads and prevent the costs that come from poor driving behaviours from spiralling out of control.”