Speeding is one of the most common ways in which drivers across the UK break the law when it comes to driving. In fact, over 2million speeding tickets were issued in 2017 alone.
New research has revealed the most common times for speeding so we look at the figures and what, as a fleet manager, you can do to reduce instances of speeding across your fleet.
When are speeding offences most likely to occur?
Recent research by Moneysupermarket, looking at data from The Department for Transport, has revealed some of the most common days and times for speeding offences to occur.
The most common day for speeding
Sunday is the most common day of the week for driving offences to occur. With over 53% of vehicles found to break the speed limit. Whilst midweek days, Tuesday- Thursday saw the lowest incidences of speeding.
The most likely time for speeding
The most likely time for drivers to break the speed limit is during the early morning hours of 4am-5am. People are more likely to keep to the speed limit between the hours of 3pm-5pm.
The most common reason for breaking speed limits
The most common reason given for breaking speed limits was drivers stating they weren’t paying attention to the speed they were travelling at. This was followed closely by people saying they speed if they are running late
What impact can speeding have on fleets?
If your staff are caught speeding whilst driving for work this can have far reaching consequences for businesses, including:
- A reduced workforce if drivers are banned due to a speeding offence
- Speeding which happens consistently, can result in vehicles needing to be replaced more quickly than intended. Speeding can also result in higher fuel consumptions and therefore higher fuel costs
- If your drivers have speeding convictions on their licences, insurance costs will inevitably be higher as well.
- There are also the potential vehicle repair costs if a speeding vehicle is involved in an accident
Coupled with these, if a driver is speeding and causes an accident, or worse a fatality, there could be severe consequences not only for the driver but also your business. Particularly if it is found the accident was due to dangerous or careless driving. Health and safety motor law and regulations continue to strengthen, especially around those who drive for a living and if your business is found to have failed in its duty of care to its employees your business could face significant fines or even prosecution.
What can fleet managers do to reduce instances of speeding?
As a fleet manager, there are many steps that you can take to try and reduce instances of speeding across your fleet of drivers.
Telematics technology can allow you to keep track of how your drivers are driving and target those who show poorer driving tendencies with relevant training. If drivers know that their driving behaviours are being monitored this may act as enough of a deterrent to encourage them to drive more conservatively. Equally, the data that a telematics solution provides around speeding can help inform your company policies – for example ensuring that last minute jobs are handled safely and effectively rather than resulting in an already busy driving rushing to get things done.
Ensure that your working culture promotes safe driving. If your drivers feel under pressure to deliver or you have unrealistic expectations of what they are able to achieve in a set time period, this may increase the likelihood of speeding. Given that driving for a living can be considered one of the most dangerous occupations, it is vital that you fulfil your duty of care to employees and ensure your company culture minimises risks.
At Anthony Jones, we specialise in fleet insurance solutions, and our expert teams can work with you to not only ensure you get the cover that you need, but to also discuss your risk management strategies. We also work closely with our legal partner, DAC Beachcroft, to help you recognise any health and safety issues within your business and ensure that employee safety is given the required focus. If you have any questions about your fleet insurance, then get in touch with us on 020 8290 9099 or email us at commercial.motor@anthonyjones.com
