A focus on ensuring the safety of all vehicles in operation should be a top priority for all UK fleet operators.

This is the view of independent fleet management specialist Venson Automotive Solutions (VAS), which has highlighted research from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) detailing the significant issue of overloading that continues to be seen among many UK road users.

According to the data, nine out of ten (88.5 per cent) of the more than 2,000 vans weighed at official weigh stations by DVSA staff last year exceeded the recommended weight limit for that vehicle type.

In addition, the report showed that many vehicles were not legally compliant in terms of their maintenance and condition.

Gill Kelly, operations director at VAS, stated: "Too many businesses cut corners when it comes to equipping their vehicles, or don't recognise the impact an inferior product could have on vehicle or driver safety.

"The worst offenders include overloaded vehicles, poorly secured equipment and a lack of pedestrian warning systems."

She added that a focus on fleet safety should always be a top priority for firms, as the consequences of a failure in this regard can not only impact a firm's reputation and bottom line, but they can be life-changing for individuals as well.