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Top Driver Fleet Safety Programs Save Companies Money

7 January 1999

Top Driver Fleet Safety Programs Save Companies Money
    NEW YORK, Jan. 7 -- A single motor vehicle crash involving a
fleet vehicle can cost a company as much as $15,000, but Top Driver, the
nation's leader in driver education, said fleet administrators can reduce that
cost by implementing a fleet safety approach which includes enrolling drivers
in a defensive driving course.
    "Investing in driver safety programs such as Top Driver's are simply the
most effective way to reduce costs for fleet operations," said Sebastian
Giordano, Top Driver Chief Operating Officer.
    "By providing well-trained drivers, a company can significantly reduce its
insurance premiums," Giordano said.  "With 73 percent of all crashes caused by
human error, graduates of a driver safety program are less likely to be
involved in an automobile crash," he added.  "This approach makes a positive,
proactive statement within a company by training drivers while combating
negative publicity.
    "Our expert trainers can tailor courses to specific needs of fleet
operators, whether it involves several vehicles or thousands," Giordano said,
adding that Top Driver offers a complete fleet safety menu which includes a
comprehensive three-step training approach that could involve video training,
classroom instruction and on-road education.
    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration motor
vehicle crashes cost employers more than $53 billion in 1992, the latest year
statistics are available.
    "It's a significant number and the more corporations and small businesses
realize that the problem is correctable, the sooner that number will drop and
their bottom line will noticeably improve," said Mack Atkinson, Vice President
of Sales for Top Driver.
    Depending on the specific program goals, fleet safety classes run between
four and eight hours, Atkinson said, with additional follow-up instruction
available.
    A few of the training options Top Driver's Corporate Fleet Safety Program
offers are:
    -- Safety Policy Review and Development
    -- Drunk Driving Awareness
    -- Driver Profiling
    -- Accident Review/Analysis
    -- Take Control Video Program

    "Safety training programs," Atkinson said, "help reduce workers'
compensation claims, improve driving skills and overall job performance,
reduce absenteeism and increase productivity, while controlling company
insurance and benefit costs."
    Partnered with Chevrolet Motor Division and Metlife Auto, Top Driver is
the first in the industry to bundle driver education programs, DMV Services,
financing information, insurance services, automotive safety products and
driver accessories in a single, easily accessible mall location.  For more
information call 1-888-TOP-DRIVER or visit http://www.topdriver.com.