Reported on Fri, 12 May 2006

Entrepreneurs and managers of small businesses are taking unnecessary risks behind the wheel when meeting clients around the country, a new survey has claimed, but a business loan could allow small firms to invest in company cars for staff and reduce transport pressures.

Analysts from Bibby Financial Services believe that a lack of resources means that one quarter of small firm managers arrive over an hour late for meetings, with a similar proportion revealing that hurrying to arrive on time has almost led to a serious accident.

The survey also found that businesspeople are not aware of the rules of the road, with one-fifth speaking on their mobile phones without hands free kits and almost half eating and drinking while driving.

David Robertson, chief executive of Bibby Financial Services, explained that cars were often the lifeblood of many small businesses and urged mangers to ensure that all staff had access to suitable vehicles.

"A good, reliable source of transport is crucial particularly for those with a business to run, but I urge owners and managers to look at their driving habits and those of their team to ensure it is as safe as possible for themselves and other road users," he said.

Mr Robertson added: "With summertime looming and more people on the roads than at any other time of the year safe driving is crucial."

Entrepreneurs could use business loans to buy more company cars to avoid potentially business-harming car sharing schemes.

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