Edwards nominated for Fleet Hall of Fame

Edwards has 30 years in fleet with LeasePlan USA. In that time, she has served as director of strategic accounts for client services; director of operations for vehicle acquisition; VP of manufacturer relations and business solutions for client relations; and now serves as SVP, client success.

In 2012 she helped found the Women in Fleet Management (WIFM) Task Force, an avenue to provide women in fleet leadership with resources and opportunities for personal and career development. She has helped take WIFM international, with recent panels at Australian and Canadian fleet conferences. Since then, WIFM has experienced dramatic growth in both female and male membership, and now has a reach of over 1,700 fleet professionals via its associated AFLA membership, LinkedIn discussion groups, and industry receptions.

"Ten or even five years ago, electric driving seemed out of reach for anyone not earning a 6 figure salary. Today, there is an electric car to fit every budget, from zippy city cars like the Mini Cooper SE or Nissan Leaf, to big luxury electric Sedans like the Porsche Taycan. Additionally, most governments offer subsidies to purchase or lease electric vehicles. But it’s in the daily running costs where electric vehicles really outshine their combustion engine cousins. Not only do EV’s have lower road taxes and sidestep urban congestion and emission zone charges, electric engines have fewer moving parts, which saves 20-30% on servicing and maintenance costs compared with a petrol or diesel car. And best of all, mileage costs are significantly lower. Depending on your electricity tariff, plugging in will save drivers 50 - 70% in refuelling costs.

Slow down: This provides you with a longer reaction time in the event a deer or other wild animal runs in front of your vehicle. Heed warning signs: Many rural roads feature deer crossing signage. Be on the lookout for signs and be extra vigilant when traversing those roadways. Be cautious at dawn and dusk: This is when there is high animal movement, but low visibility. Be extra cautious when driving in the early morning or after dark. Use high beams: When driving at night, make sure to use your high beams, which increase viewing distance of the road ahead. They can help you spot deer in advance. Pay attention to the side of roads: Deer and other wildlife can suddenly dart into the road, so look off to either side from time to time. Look for shine: Anything reflective or shiny up ahead could be “eye shine”—that is, a deer looking in your direction. Eliminate all distractions: As always, set the cell phone, coffee cup and anything else aside and stay focused on the road.

If you are caught off guard and think you are going to strike a deer, experts offer the following advice:

Leasing lets you choose a contract that covers all your car’s maintenance and service, so the annual check-up, tyre replacements, repairs, and roadside assistance are included in the package. Leasing keeps your company moving, taking away all the hassle and administration tasks related to your car. So that you can have the peace of mind you need to focus on your core business. And when it's time to hand back the keys, you don’t have to worry about selling or trading the car. The leasing company takes on the risk for you.

Whether you’re growing your team and need more cars, or simply need the predictability of a fixed-monthly fee—leasing gives you flexibility, scalability, and control—invaluable assets in an uncertain future. You choose the term, tailor your contract to your budget and needs, and then focus on what's next for your business.

Leasing allows you to select your new vehicle from a wide variety of the very latest makes and models, and best deals. You benefit from the reliability, durability and exceptional fuel economy of driving a new car with all the best tech and innovations. This lowers your costs and makes your car less exposed to maintenance and performance issues that appear as a vehicle ages.

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  Do not swerve: It’s better to strike the deer than to hit a tree or pole.
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  Brake firmly: But just before you make impact with the animal, take your foot off the brake. This technique reduces the risk of the deer smashing through your windshield.
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  Seek help: After hitting a deer, if possible, leave your vehicle and head to a safe place on foot where you can call for help. If the vehicle is disabled or you are in a remote area, turn on your hazard lights, call the police, and keep your seat belt fastened.

Source: Automotive Fleet