Corporate Manslaughter

From 6th April 2008 companies found guilty of causing death due to health and safety negligence can be fined unlimited amounts of money. This new law puts the onus firmly on the employer to ensure they are protecting their employees and the public from any danger they may face from the company's activity. If there was a work related death, the responsibility is shifted on to senior management to prove there was no negligence on the part of them or the company otherwise charges could be brought.

The law only has to prove that a high proportion of the cause of the accident was due to internal procedures and senior managers and directors will be held accountable.

In terms of companies running small or large fleets, it is exceptionally important that drivers and vehicles are the safest they can be and that you comply with Health & Safety legislation.

There are steps you can take to mitigate the risk of a corporate manslaughter claim by taking the safety of your drivers and the public seriously and using preventative measures and constant monitoring to avoid problems. A good Vehicle Tracking System will enable you to ensure that your fleet is safe.