16-08-05 Enforcement of Drivers' Hours Rules Updated
Regulations amending the arrangements for the enforcement of European drivers’ hours rules in Great Britain were laid before Parliament today. The Passenger and Goods Vehicle (Recording Equipment) Regulations 2005 will modify the existing enforcement framework in order to:
- reflect the imminent introduction of new technology for recording drivers’ activities - the digital tachograph
- tighten up existing powers in the light of experience
The new Regulations will come into force on 5th August 2005 and will affect the operators and drivers of heavy commercial vehicles.
Minister of State for Transport Dr Stephen Ladyman said:
“Effective enforcement of these drivers’ hours limits helps reduce the risk that commercial vehicles will be involved in fatigue-related accidents. Enforcement also helps to ensure a level playing field amongst operators and to maintain decent working conditions for drivers” “The new Regulations do not introduce any new drivers’ hours limits and their effect on law abiding drivers and operators will be negligible. Indeed, drivers and operators should benefit from better enforcement against law-breakers.” “It is important that we continue to keep the drivers’ hours enforcement regime up to date. With this in mind, we intend to review the new rules in 12 to 18 months time. By that time we should have accumulated sufficient practical experience with digital tachographs to determine whether any further changes to the legislation or associated guidance are necessary”
Page last updated: 03/10/2006