The Vehicle Operator Services Agency (VOSA) announced last week, that from 28th May 2009, they will have the authority to issue fixed penalties for offences committed by drivers at the time of road enforcement checks.
It is hoped that the extension of search powers to the VOSA examiners will improve the level of road safety.
The fixed penalties will be graduated for drivers' hours and overloading offences, depending on the seriousness of the breach.
Joan Williams, the head of road freight and enforcement policy at Freight Transport Association (FTA) said: "Drivers will be more accountable for the roadworthiness of their vehicles and could face fixed penalties if they fail to conduct their daily walk round checks properly."
"Crucially, foreign drivers who fail to comply with the rules will not be able to slip through the cracks anymore as any driver issued with a fixed penalty who cannot provide a suitable UK address will be required to pay a deposit at the roadside and if necessary the vehicle will be immobilised until the deposit is paid."
Here is a summary of the introduction of graduated fixed penalties and deposits from VOSA:
It is hoped that the extension of search powers to the VOSA examiners will improve the level of road safety.
The fixed penalties will be graduated for drivers' hours and overloading offences, depending on the seriousness of the breach.
Joan Williams, the head of road freight and enforcement policy at Freight Transport Association (FTA) said: "Drivers will be more accountable for the roadworthiness of their vehicles and could face fixed penalties if they fail to conduct their daily walk round checks properly."
"Crucially, foreign drivers who fail to comply with the rules will not be able to slip through the cracks anymore as any driver issued with a fixed penalty who cannot provide a suitable UK address will be required to pay a deposit at the roadside and if necessary the vehicle will be immobilised until the deposit is paid."
Here is a summary of the introduction of graduated fixed penalties and deposits from VOSA:
- The legislation came into force on 1st April 2009, with a 'go live' date of 28th May 2009
- As of 28th May 2009 VOSA officers can issue fixed penalties for offences committed by drivers at the time of roadside enforcement checks
- If a driver is unable to provide an acceptable UK address, they will be asked to pay an on the spot deposit equal to the likely penalty.
- VOSA will have the authority to immobilise prohibited vehicles in certain circumstances, as well as vehicles where drivers have been unable to pay a required deposit.
- Operator licence holders will be required to notify the Traffic Commissioner of fixed penalties issued to their drivers and OCRS scores will also be also affected
- A driver offence record of fixed penalties and court action will be maintained by VOSA. This information will be used by VOSA to consider any further action, such as a warning letter, further investigation or referral to a Traffic Commissioner who may consider taking action against the driver’s vocational entitlement.
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