04/08/08
Hauliers are warning that sky-high diesel prices are crippling their industry and putting jobs at risk.
With the price of oil set to climb still further, Larry Smith, Managing Director of leading haulage insurance broker Towergate
Telford, provides hauliers with some top tips to save you time and money during this difficult time for the industry.
"A safer business is a more profitable business; taking steps to cut the number of accident doesn't just save money on insurance,
it can lead to significant savings elsewhere"
Save money - invest in safety
- With fatal accidents involving HGVs costing on average close to £1,000,000, saving lives means significant financial
savings, not to mention the un-quantifiable cost in terms of human suffering.
- Cutting the number and cost of accidents means lower insurance premiums as well as a cut in uninsured damage, a particular issue if there's a high policy excess.
Safer driving can yield an immediate fuel bill cut of 10% or more as well as savings through reduced tyre wear
- Fewer accidents means less truck and driver down-time and less management time wasted dealing with disrupted delivery schedules
- A better delivery record means more satisfied customers
- Testimonials from happy customers can be a real asset when it comes to winning new haulage contracts
Invest in safety - save on insurance
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Make an investment in crash reduction measures - premium savings and the cut in uninsured damage could more than cover that investment
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Carry out a comprehensive risk assessment ñ take appropriate action
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41% of drivers have a sleep disorder - screen them for sleep apnoea
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Monitor driver behaviour with vehicle "telematics"
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Introduce driver training - your insurance provider should be able to help
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Ask a specialist insurance broker to review your insurance programme
Save on insurance - save on fuel
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An investment in driver training doesn't just cut the risk of an accident
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Eliminating harsh breaking and acceleration, optimising the use of the gears and minimising vehicle idling time can all lead to dramatic savings in fuel consumption
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Driver training leading to safer and more fuel efficient driving can cut your fuel bill be 10% or more; consider a SAFED approved trainer
There are a number of difference sources that can help the haulier save money
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