If you’ve recently taken on the role of fleet manager alongside your regular job, it can feel like a big responsibility. You might have heard the term ‘Corporate Manslaughter’ in the fleet press and wondered what it means for you. Could your company and even you really be held responsible if one of your drivers causes a fatal accident? The short answer is yes, but don’t panic. By taking the right steps, you can protect yourself, your drivers, and your company.
Let’s break it down into simple, actionable steps.
What is Corporate Manslaughter ?
Corporate Manslaughter is a serious criminal legal charge which can apply to businesses who fall far below the standard that can reasonably be expected of them to meet their legal obligations, resulting in a death. Individuals can be held responsible for the equivalent offence of gross negligence manslaughter i.e. where they carry out their job in exceptionally bad way that results in a death. As a fleet manager, you’re responsible for ensuring your drivers and vehicles comply with the law. If someone dies in a traffic incident due to negligence, you potentially could be held accountable.
It is all about how the risk is being managed. Learn more here.
Two Key Questions to Ask Yourself
Before you start stressing, ask yourself these two key questions:
Are We Legally Compliant?
Do you and your drivers comply with all legal requirements, including:
- Driving Licences: Are they valid and up to date?
- Insurance: Is every driver and vehicle properly insured?
- Vehicle Maintenance: Do you have regular checks and keep records for proactive and reactive maintenance?
- Driver Hours and Wellbeing: Are your drivers sticking to legal driving hours and looking after their health?
- Risk Assessments: Do you assess risks regularly and document everything?
Do We Have Robust Policies?
Have you implemented clear policies for everyone who drives on company business? This includes a comprehensive Driver Handbook that all drivers are familiar with.
If you can confidently answer “yes” to both questions, you’re on the right track to mitigating risk.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Company Against Corporate Manslaughter
Partner with Experts
Many organisations can help you manage your fleet effectively. These services are often affordable and can cover everything from licence checks to vehicle maintenance schedules. By working with a trusted third-party provider like Fleet Service GB, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that experts are supporting you.
Train Your Drivers
Investing in driver training is a win-win. Not only does it improve safety and compliance, but it can also save money by reducing fuel costs, accidents, and wear and tear. Training ensures that everyone who drives for your company is well-prepared and aware of their responsibilities.
Keep Comprehensive Records
Document everything—from vehicle inspections to risk assessments and driver hours. This paperwork will be your best defence if an incident occurs.
Review and Update Policies
Ensure your Driver Handbook and company policies are up to date and relevant. Regularly communicate these policies to your drivers to keep them informed and compliant.
Prioritise Driver Wellbeing
Healthy drivers are safer drivers. Encourage regular breaks, provide resources for mental health support, and ensure workloads are manageable.
Why a Third-Party Provider is a Game-Changer
By engaging the right third-party provider, you can:
- Fulfil your Duty of Care and legal obligations.
- Reduce costs through improved efficiency and fewer incidents.
- Free up time to focus on your ‘real’ job.
FAQs About Fleet Management and Corporate Manslaughter
What is the role of a fleet manager?
A fleet manager ensures that all vehicles and drivers comply with legal requirements, company policies, and safety standards. They oversee everything from maintenance schedules to risk assessments.
What is Duty of Care in fleet management?
Duty of Care means taking reasonable steps to manage the risk to ensure the safety of your drivers, vehicles, and the public. This includes providing proper training, maintaining vehicles, and complying with laws.
Can Fleet Service GB help me with compliance?
Yes! Fleet Service GB offers a fully integrated solution to manage everything from licences and insurance to maintenance and training. They simplify fleet management, so you can focus on other responsibilities.
How can I reduce the risk of Corporate Manslaughter charges?
Ensure legal compliance, maintain robust policies, provide driver training, and keep comprehensive records. Partnering with a trusted provider can make this process much easier.
What services does Fleet Service GB provide?
Fleet Service GB offers a wide range of services, including:
- Licence and insurance checks.
- Vehicle maintenance scheduling.
- Driver training and wellbeing programmes.
- Risk assessments and record-keeping tools.
- A compliant driver handbook, constantly updated with the latest legislation.
Final Thoughts
Taking on the role of fleet manager might seem daunting, but with the right systems and support in place, it doesn’t have to be. By ensuring compliance, implementing strong policies, and partnering with experts like Fleet Service GB, you can protect yourself, your drivers, and your company—and still have time for your ‘real’ job!
