Changes to EU driving rules

Are you aware of the new EU driving rules that were introduced on the 20th August 2020? Fines of up to £500 are already being issued across the UK, so operators and drivers need to review the changes and be conscious of the penalties.

The highlighted changes to driving hours and tachograph rules - which were announced by the Department of Transport include:

• Drivers must ’return home’ every four weeks
• A ban on drivers spending their weekly rest period inside their vehicle
• A new definition of ’non-commercial carriage’
• New provisions for rest breaks on ferries and rail services

The ban on weekly rest periods being taken in vehicles will mean that drivers will have to seek out "suitable genderfriendly accommodation with adequate sleeping and sanitary facilities." This means no tents and drivers will have to locate a hotel, hostel or sleeper pod. This will be a big thing for drivers to consider, particularly those that spend a lot of time on the road.

Nick Long, SNAP’s European Network Manager, said, "we have created a list of all SNAP parking locations that have suitable accommodation onsite and we will continue to work with the authorities so we can provide our customers with any new developments."

Transport managers have been asked to plan their routes, so drivers can return to the operating centre they are usually based and spend at least one regular weekly rest period at home, every four weeks.

Read the Government update on the rule changes here.

Josh Cousens | SNAP.