In this article
Duty of care is an employer’s responsibility to take reasonable steps to protect employees from foreseeable risks, including while they travel for work. Ground transportation is one of the most important — and most overlooked — parts of that responsibility. Practical measures include using licensed, insured, vetted transportation suppliers, avoiding self-driving after long or overnight flights, pre-booking late-night and early-morning trips, knowing where travelers are, and having a plan for incidents and disruptions.
Why ground transportation matters
Road travel carries more everyday risk for business travelers than flying. Risks include fatigue after long flights, unfamiliar roads, unlicensed or unsafe drivers, and being stranded late at night.
Practical measures
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
| Fatigue after flights | Pre-booked chauffeured transfers; no self-driving after red-eyes |
| Unvetted drivers | Approved, licensed and insured suppliers |
| Late-night travel | Pre-booked pickups with confirmed chauffeur details |
| Unknown whereabouts | Itineraries shared with travel managers; booking records |
| Disruptions | 24/7 dispatch and flight tracking |
| Incidents | Clear reporting procedures and supplier accountability |
Supplier standards
Ask transportation suppliers about:
- Commercial licensing and insurance levels.
- Chauffeur background checks, training and drug and alcohol policies.
- Vehicle maintenance and inspection.
- 24/7 dispatch and incident procedures.
Read how to choose a black car company and chauffeur training standards.
Special situations
- High-profile executives: discretion and security planning. Read confidentiality and your chauffeur.
- Major events: planning around closures, such as UN week. Read UNGA week traffic.
- Severe weather: flexible scheduling and 4WD vehicles.
Policy
Duty of care should be reflected in the travel policy. Read corporate travel policy for ground transportation and our corporate travel service.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What is duty of care in business travel?
An employer’s responsibility to take reasonable steps to protect employees from foreseeable risks while traveling for work.
How does ground transportation affect duty of care?
Using vetted suppliers and avoiding risky self-driving after long flights reduce foreseeable risks.
Should employees drive after overnight flights?
Many companies discourage or prohibit it due to fatigue risk.
