Risk and insurance expert Zurich has issued a set of guidelines for businesses who still allow drivers to make calls using a hands-free kit.
Andy Price, from Zurich Risk Services’ motor fleet department, said: “Our advice to fleet managers is that it can be an offence to require people to use mobile phones while driving – you are asking them to ‘drive while not in control of the vehicle’.
“It is therefore important you encourage company policies limiting work and personal phone use while driving and consider supplying mobile phones that cannot be used whilst a vehicle is in motion. Also persuade your drivers to use voicemail or call divert, and stop regularly to check messages or return calls.”