Traffic Commissioner Highlights Abuse of Section-19 Permits
In a Section 19 Public Inquiry hearing heard last year (2023) the Traffic Commissioner highlighted again the importance of permit operators ensuring that their vehicles allow passengers and other road users to be safe. Continue reading→
Driver CPC Reform: Department For Transport Publishes Consultation Findings
In early 2022 the Department of Transport (DfT) launched a consultation into the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (DCPC) regime, following a review undertaken in late 2021 on the driver shortage issues. Continue reading→
Hydrogen Powered Vehicles – DVSA statutory testing
In early August 2023, the Driver & Vehicles Standards Agency ('DVSA') posted a bulletin regarding statutory testing of Hydrogen powered vehicles. Continue reading→
Transport for London found Guilty of “Procedural Impropriety”
The case of Transport for London (TfL) vs. Commercial Plant Services Ltd & Others 2023 ("Commercial Plant") recently hit the headlines as the London Tribunal ruled that TfL "broke the law" when it used CCTV systems rather than Civil Enforcement Officers (CEOs) to issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) to drivers. Continue reading→
Department of Transport Funding £8m to Improve Truck Roadside Facilities
The Department for Transport (DfT) has recently announced the "winners" of its £8 million funding offered to bidders to ensure better roadside facilities, more secure parking and improved rest areas. Continue reading→
Loading Safely – New Guidance from the DVSA
The DVSA has recently updated its guidance on safe loading of vehicles - something which they believe should be of primary concern for all road users, whether it is using a seatbelt to secure passengers in a family car or transporting goods in lorries. Continue reading→
Longer Lorries now Allowed on UK Roads
Legislation passed by the UK Government which came into force on 31st May 2023 sees the introduction to Great Britain's roads of longer semi-trailer (LST) combinations of up to 18.55 metres, a full 2.05 metres longer than previously allowed. Continue reading→
DVSA Clarification of Use of HIAB Loader Lorries Maximum Length and Weight
The DVSA has recently highlighted some confusion about the use of "HIAB" loader lorries regarding the length and maximum weight of these vehicles. Continue reading→
Would the Emergency Doors on your Coach or Bus Work in the Event of an Emergency?
For the vast majority of bus and coach journeys the emergency doors are not used, but of course should there be an accident and passengers need to be evacuated from the vehicle quickly, ensuring that the emergency doors work could prove to be literally lifesaving for the passengers on the coach. Continue reading→
What to do if Industrial Action has Delayed your Replacement Driver Tachograph Card – Department of Transport Advice to Stakeholders
Following the recent flurry of strikes in the UK held by Royal Mail workers, the Department for Transport (DfT) has issued updated guidance on what to do should your replacement Driver Card not arrive within the stated timescales. Continue reading→
Department for Transport – Review of Heavy Vehicle Testing Update
The Department for Transport issued a report on the state of Heavy Vehicle Testing in the UK, following disruption by the Covid-19 lockdown measures. Continue reading→
Senior Traffic Commissioner’s Statutory Document Amendments – September 2022
The Senior Traffic Commissioner's Statutory Documents are crucial guidance documents that set out the relevant rules and obligations applicable to the holders of PSV and HGV operator's licences. Continue reading→