Print

Posted in:

UK fleets losing 14% of worktime to congestion

Fleet managers estimate 14% of their workforce’s time is lost as a result of congestion, as new analysis finds that it’s one of the biggest bugbears for drivers.

mercedesCommissioned by Mercedes-Benz Vans amongst 2,000 van drivers, owners and operators, the research found 61% of respondents say that they – or the company they work for – have lost business or customers as a direct result of congestion.

This figure peaks at 82% in Greater London and 66% in the West Midlands, while 75% of delivery drivers say they have lost business as a result of congestion.

The research also found that potholes are a key concern for drivers, with 60% saying pothole repairs should be the priority for the UK’s road network, ahead of better parking provision in towns (43%) and investment in bypasses to remove bottle-necks (34%).

The research found two-thirds have had to pay for van repairs in the last 12 months as a result of pothole damage – the average cost of this damage is £411 over the past year. Nearly one in 10 (8%) have had to spend £1,000 or more repairing vans as a result of pothole damage in the past year alone.

The research also identified a lack of van driver awareness over how smart motorways work, with only 28% claiming they definitely know how to use smart motorways.

Steve Bridge, managing director, Mercedes-Benz Vans, commented: “With almost 4.2 million van drivers on our roads – around one in 10 of all vehicles on our highways – the voice of this important group of motorists needs to be heard. Our research clearly highlights that potholes and congestion actually cost these hard-working business men and women serious amounts of money, both in repair bills and time lost, which isn’t acceptable.”

For more of the latest industry news, click here.

Written by Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.

Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news.

6563 posts