Driving to work 'could be faster option'

More people are expected to opt to drive to work as new figures suggest problems with the UK's public transport system are affecting thousands of employees.

Commuters across the country are said to be struggling to get from A to B on trains and buses, with figures from Abbey showing 500,000 people can't get to work at all at least once a month.

Public transport delays are also having a big impact on British businesses – costing them up to £212 million in lost working hours.

Driving looks set to become more popular for those trying to get to work and motorists are urged to ensure they have adequate car insurance before they set off.

Ian Wilson, managing director of Abbey's Business Banking, said: "The inconvenience of pubic transport delays is one most of us have experienced but often the impact on our working day is often overlooked, not to mention the cost to our employer.

"The smaller the business the greater the burden of staff lateness so the onus really is on the individual to build in enough time not to leave colleagues and bosses in the lurch."

Businesses which provide staff with a company car are also advised to ensure the vehicles have adequate cover and have passed their MOT.