On Monday, 5 March 2018 DVSA traffic examiners began issuing on-the-spot fines for any drivers’ hours offences committed in the previous 28 days.

In a single roadside check, DVSA traffic examiners will issue fines for up to five drivers’ hours offences. It means drivers could be fined up to £1,500 in a single check if they are found to have consistently broken the rules. It won’t matter if the offences took place in Great Britain or elsewhere.

The rules will also apply to drivers who don’t live in Great Britain who will need to pay any fines immediately, before being allowed to continue their journey. DVSA will immobilise their vehicle until they pay.

As well as issuing fines for driver’s hours offences, DVSA traffic examiners will also fine drivers who don’t rest properly. Lorry, bus and coach drivers must take a 45-hour rest break at least every fortnight.

“We welcome enforcement that increases road safety and ensures drivers get their rest breaks,” said RHA Chief Executive, Richard Burnett. “And it will certainly help DVSA get a grip on drivers who’ve crossed into the UK having driven long distances without sufficient breaks before they’ve got here.” “Whilst we support action against firms who deliberately flout drivers’ hours rules, we also call on the government to address the urgent need for more lorry parking areas so that drivers have somewhere secure to rest.”

Photo: Richard Burnett.