A Groupama Insurances fleet survey has revealed the effectiveness of driver training and risk management programmes in reducing the frequency and cost of insurance claims, said the company.
Groupama said the frequency of accidents was reduced by 20% and claims costs fell by a quarter when a driver training and risk management programme had been introduced.
It said it was so convinced of the effectiveness of such programmes that its underwriters were able to consider widening their risk acceptance criteria, provided the company applying for cover committed to a comprehensive fleet risk management programme.
Groupama director of motor Jack Brownhill said: "This study removes any doubt as to the effectiveness of risk management and driver training interventions in reducing the frequency of accidents and their costs."
The survey, which took place over three years, covered company cars, heavy goods vehicles, small to medium sized vans and minibuses.
"A 20% drop in accidents over such a large and lengthy study has massive benefits in terms of lower fleet running costs, increased productivity and the wider road safety benefits for other road user," concluded Brownhill.
