Work Mates Driving

[donetello]

Not sure where to post this,We both have vans but work together a fair bit and take turns to pickup and drive to jobs which can be anywhere in UK.He has to be the worst driver I've ever been in with,5 times just this week we have nearly rear ended another vehicle,Constantly speeds and rolls cigs answers phone etc.I have mentioned it to work before and nothing seems to have happened.I don't want to cause a stir as I have to work with him.I feel on edge all the time when he's driving and leave the van feeling like I've just got off a ride at Alton Towers.Constantly drives up the car in fronts arse and then has to slam
the brakes on sending anything on the seat onto the floor and tools etc in back thudding into the seat backs.Any pointers on best way to address the situation welcome.

[EDDIE51]

If your mate has to drive in order to do his job then driving is as much part of his work duty as the job itself is. If his driving is not safe then he is not performing his job in a safe manner. It is just the same as if he was leaving the jobs he does in an unsafe condition that could cause a death. You need to report this as an unsafe work practice (which it is!) get the works health and safety on to it!.

[Canary42]

SO, ket's look at a likely scenario. He's involved in an accident, you're both unhurt but his driving has killed ot injured an innocent person. What do you say in your witness statement ? Are you "nice about it so as not to upset him" or do you tell the bare truth ? Think about it - it may well happen.

[Canary42]

*lets

[CokeTulip]

I agree with the others donetello...but if it was me - for starters I wouldn't risk going with him again job or no job. Its too late to complain when it causes a serious accident.

His feelings being considered too much. I feel for you and I realise it is a hard decision but this is only because you may think of the job being more important than you! and this is warped thinking.. need to value yourself more.

(You may also be seen to be making risky decisions as people may think that if you continue to go with him that you can not be taken seriously - this is another way a company might see it so better to be firm and do not change your mind under any circumstances. This guy does not listen to you when you ask him to be careful and I doubt he will listen to anyone. (I would not believe this person if they were to say they will change and be more careful)

Can you complete a risk and health and safety report yourself (giving your experiences to date) and give a copy to your solicitor and the company. I am sure you can get the advice of the Health & Safety commission too - and they should be able to tell you how to do it and fully protect your interests.

YOu can always present a senario to them (or police) and get the info you want and you dont even need to take their advice but you will know what to do and you might take their advice. If you seek advice then it gives you a bit of backing and confidence and that might be all you need.

If the company fails to act and you have reported concerns to them they can be sued if anything goes wrong (you are saving their bacon and they should be grateful to you and want you to be safe at work)

Only once I experienced something like this when a member of staff (guy) at our company drove us to an evening comedy show - Jack Dee in Newcastle years ago. We hadn't been driven by him before. Did about 100+ on the motorway with all the windows open in the fast lane most of the way with 5 colleagues in the car. We were all completely terrified and screaming at him to slow down as we all thought we would be killed. Would he listen -No, they dont! - you are wasting your time asking this guy and he is out to defy you and will not care so do not give him anoyther opportunity.

When we got to Newcastle the tax disk was missing and on the inside back window!! We could have all been killed. We complained & found out the guy had form but had lied about this , this type of person can take other huge risks and often get a thrill taking risks & getting away with them.

What you describe could not be more serious. Also, you have to get into your head that you are more important and that you are right. I do respect that it is your decision D.. its only my opinion. Fingers crossed for you.