DriveTech offers advice when driving abroad

26 June 2007

As quoted in June's Fleet World magazine, Jim Kirkwood, DriveTech's managing director stresses the importance of ensuring that any vehicle is serviced before driving abroad. 'Some vehicle equipment may be compulsory abroad. For example, a warning triangle is compulsory in most European countries as are headlamp beam deflectors and a GB sticker.'

'Fatigue is also a key concern especially if you are travelling to your final destination by plane, and then hiring an unfamiliar car, with unfamiliar controls and on unfamiliar roads. Drivers should always try and get a good night's sleep before setting off, plan the journey wisely and take regular breaks every two hours.'

'Also, consider the benefits, and downsides, of certain modes of transport. For example, the EuroTunnel train may be a quick and easy option, but there are no on board facilities that allow the driver to get away from the vehicle to recuperate. Ferries, on the other hand, may be significantly slower but they are designed with the driver in mind with quiet areas, restaurants, cinemas and play areas for children.'

'Finally, drivers should be aware that alcoholic drinks may be stronger and legal tolerance levels can be lower ( typically 50 mg per 100ml, rather than 80mg in the UK) so the best advice is not to drink and drive at all'.

EDITOR’S NOTES

DriveTech is the UK's leading provider of  ‘driving at work’ risk management, driver assessment and driver training solutions.

DriveTech’s goal is to reduce both an organisation’s vehicle business costs and the personal risk for ‘at work’ drivers, by significantly improving driver ABC – attitude, behaviour and competence – therefore supporting driver safety and corporate ‘duty of care’ requirements.

DriveTech (UK) has won the Institute of Transport Management’s ‘Fleet Award for Driver Training’ in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 and its ‘European Driver Safety Specialist’ award in 2005.

For further information contact:

David Richards at DriveTech (UK) at david.richards@drivetech.co.uk or 01344 467271.