Best or worst driver – which are you?
Monday 04 April 2016
Truck drivers often bear the brunt of motorists’ complaints but new figures suggest they’re actually the fourth BEST drivers on our roads.
The analysis comes from accident claims figures for 2015 from insurer 1st Central, based on the professions of those making claims. Lorry drivers were fourth behind roofers, farm workers and builders.
Van drivers also proved to be among the least accident prone, with painters and decorators and carpet fitters in the top 10. The worst drivers were accountants, followed by solicitors and doctors.
The Freight Transport Association (FTA) recognises the driving skills of its members and is keen to demonstrate them in its annual Driver of the Year competitions which take place in July.
Following the success of its Van Driver of the Year contest, FTA has introduced three separate categories for 2016 celebrating the skills and abilities of professional drivers across the freight and logistics sector.
The three contests are FTA Truck Driver of the Year (44-tonne) sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Trucks); FTA Truck Driver of the Year (18-tonne) sponsored by Bridgestone Tyres) and Van Excellence Driver of the Year sponsored by LeasePlan UK. All three will be held at Mercedes-Benz, Wentworth Park, Barnsley, between 12 and 14 July.
Mark Cartwright, FTA Head of Vans, said: “Lorry and van drivers are often criticised for their driving but this analysis shows they’re actually amongst the best drivers on the road. It takes a great deal of skill and expertise to manoeuvre a 44-tonne truck and the Driver of the Year competitions will recognise some of the best in the business.”
The contests are open to FTA members and Van Excellence accredited operators. For more information or to nominate a driver please go to http://www.fta.co.uk/events/driver-of-the-year-2016.html. Full terms and conditions apply for each category.
Find out more about the competitions by following FTA on Facebook or Twitter @newsfromFTA @vanexcellence #FTAdriver16
FTA Press Office
01892 552255
press.office@fta.co.uk
