Mechanical defects are a significant issue that fleet operators across the country must contend with every year and now a new campaign has been launched  to help businesses deal with this problem effectively.

Set up by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the new campaign aims to address the fact that two-thirds (63 per cent) of all vans stopping and assessed at the roadside by representatives for the Driver and Vehicles Standards Agency (DVSA) each year have some form of mechanical issue, with around half of these instances causing serious concern due to a potential impact on safety.

In addition, more than nine out of ten (93 per cent) of vehicles checked by the DVSA are overloaded by their operator – a problem that can result in diminished handling/braking and an increased risk of accidents.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes commented: "Britain's 3.2 million vans are essential for the smooth running of the economy, but their recent safety record is a matter of concern. Vans rack up huge distances and endure significant wear and tear on a daily basis so regular servicing is essential.

"We're launching a new campaign to promote maintenance so businesses can take the necessary steps to ensure their vehicles are safe, protecting their drivers and other road users without the need for further fines and regulations."

Indeed, SMMT has now published a new guide that it believes will help businesses to keep their vehicles in the best possible condition; helping to reduce the number of instances of mechanical defects and unsafe vans that are witnessed on the roads every year.

Goods vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tonnes are exempt from the UK's Operator Licensing regime and this is something both the SMMT and DVSA are keen to see continue.

However, in order for this to be the case, there needs to be a considerable reduction in recorded defects and roadside test failures if operators are to be trusted to manage their own compliance without further regulation.