The government has unveiled a wide-ranging road safety strategy that signals tougher expectations for businesses whose staff drive as part of their work. Legal experts say operators with strong training programmes and clear oversight of driver behaviour will be in a far safer position under the new approach.

The Department for Transport’s plan sets out an ambition to cut deaths and serious injuries on UK roads by 65% over the next ten years, rising to 70% for children under 16. Proposed measures include a review of the drink-drive limit, alongside sharper enforcement on drug-driving, speeding, mobile phone use and failure to wear seatbelts. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the strategy was designed to restart progress after years of stagnation.

One key element is the creation of a national road safety charter for work-related driving, which would outline minimum standards for employers. Although participation will initially be voluntary, lawyers warn it could quickly become the benchmark used by investigators and courts. Firms that fail to engage may be judged harshly following serious incidents, even before any formal regulation is introduced.

The strategy also places strong emphasis on using data to improve safety. While tools such as telematics can highlight risky behaviour, experts caution that ignoring warning signs could increase legal exposure. There is also a shift in language, replacing the word “accident” with “collision”, underlining a focus on accountability. Industry bodies have welcomed the plans and say they are ready to work with government to ensure the measures are practical and evidence-led.