Car Insurance News from Be Wiser

Firms To Be Held Liable For Phone Using Drivers

Companies, whose drivers use their phones while driving could be held liable for their behaviour and prosecuted, say police. A trial scheme is currently under way in London where company drivers caught using their mobiles are being fined £30 and told their employer could be interviewed.

Within a few days, a uniformed officer will call at the firm's headquarters for a meeting with a company director. The police will then ask about their risk management policies, with those who refuse to co-operate facing fines under health and safety rules.

Businesses employing persistent offenders could ultimately face prosecution, say police. They are responsible for giving the right advice to employees who use their own cars for work, as well as those who drive company cars.

The move comes after it emerged that four in ten motorists are still breaking mobile phone laws. A third of all collisions are also believed to involve those who were working at the time.

"We are not out to target businesses, only to encourage companies to operate responsibly," stated a chief inspector.

"The scheme is designed to make companies feel uncomfortable when not fulfilling their responsibilities, but we will also be there to offer support and guidance into putting policy in place."

Read more news about: