Susie Jones
Nachrichten und Updates • 3 min lesen

Fünf Lkw-Mythen entlarvt

Erstellt: 19.08.2024

Aktualisiert: 19.08.2024

Lkw-Fahrer sind seit Jahrhunderten das Rückgrat des globalen Handels - sie transportieren Waren und Güter in die ganze Welt. Doch trotz seiner wichtigen Rolle war der Lkw-Verkehr lange Zeit von Mythen und Missverständnissen umgeben.

Auch wenn einige dieser Mythen mit Vorsicht zu genießen sind, können andere der Lkw-Branche und den in ihr Beschäftigten schaden. Daher ist es von größter Bedeutung, diese falschen Vorstellungen auszuräumen, damit das Lkw-Fahren auch für künftige Generationen eine attraktive Berufswahl bleibt. Wir haben unsere Fahrer-Community auf Facebook nach den größten Mythen gefragt, die sie im Laufe ihrer Karriere gehört haben.

1. Lkw-Fahrer sitzen den ganzen Tag

"Lkw-Fahrer sitzen den ganzen Tag nur herum." Ein Satz, den man häufig von Trucker Luke hört.

Die Welt des Lkw-Verkehrs besteht aus mehr als nur dem Fahren. Lkw-Fahrer arbeiten oft mit anderen an Terminals, Docks und Lagerhäusern zusammen, um Fracht zu ent- und beladen. Auch hinter dem Lenkrad geht nicht alles glatt. Lkw-Fahrer müssen sich auf das Manövrieren ihrer Fahrzeuge konzentrieren und sich an die strengen Fahrtenschreibervorschriften halten. Sie müssen genau wissen, welche Bereiche sie befahren dürfen und welche nicht, und sie müssen sich der potenziellen Gefahren bewusst sein.

2. Alle Trucker sind Männer

Dies ist ein veraltetes Klischee, das der Realität des modernen Lkw-Verkehrs nicht gerecht wird. In letzter Zeit hat sich das Verhältnis zwischen männlichen und weiblichen Lkw-Fahrern deutlich verschoben. Im Jahr 2021 machten weibliche Fahrer nur [1 %] (https://britishtrucking.co.uk/female-truckers-in-the-uk-percentages-in-the-haulage-industry-2021/#:~:text=There%20are%20currently%20315%2C000%20registered,job%20than%20their%20male%20counterparts.) der 315.000 Lkw-Fahrer im Vereinigten Königreich aus. Diese Zahl steigt jedoch von Jahr zu Jahr, da sich die Branche weiterentwickelt und sich der Inklusion verschrieben hat. Fahrerinnen wie Jodi Smith sind unschätzbare Fürsprecherinnen für Frauen in der Branche. Jodi dokumentiert ihre Erfahrungen als Lkw-Fahrerin online und inspiriert damit andere, sich hinter das Steuer zu setzen.

3. Jeder kann einen Lkw fahren

Viele gehen davon aus, dass sie, wenn sie ein Auto fahren können, auch einen Lkw fahren können. Das Lkw-Fahren erfordert jedoch besondere Fähigkeiten, die nicht für jeden geeignet sind. Für das Führen eines Lastkraftwagens ist ein Befähigungsnachweis für Fahrer (CPC) erforderlich. Um den CPC zu erhalten, müssen Fahrer fünf Prüfungen ablegen:

  • Theorie

  • Fallstudie

  • Übungen im Gelände

  • Fahren im Straßenverkehr

  • Praktische Demonstrationen

Hinzu kommt, dass das Lkw-Fahren einen Lebensstil erfordert, der nicht jedermanns Sache ist - mit langen einsamen Stunden auf der Straße, die oft unerwartete Herausforderungen mit sich bringen.

4. Bremsweg

"Autofahrer denken, der Bremsweg eines Lkw sei derselbe wie der eines Pkw", das hat der Lkw-Fahrer Paul schon zu oft gehört.

Der Bremsweg eines Lkw unterscheidet sich aufgrund mehrerer Faktoren erheblich von dem eines Pkw: - Gewicht: Das Gesamtgewicht eines beladenen Lkw ist höher als das eines typischen Pkw, was bedeutet, dass er mehr Kraft benötigt, um abzubremsen und zum Stillstand zu kommen.

  • Mechanik: Das Bremssystem eines Lastkraftwagens ist auf schwere Lasten zugeschnitten, d. h. sie haben größere und robustere Achsen und Bremskomponenten, was zu längeren Reaktionszeiten und längeren Bremswegen führt.

Bei einer Geschwindigkeit von 60 km/h benötigt ein Lkw 132 m zum Bremsen, ein Pkw dagegen nur 73 m. Dies zeigt, wie wichtig es ist, bei einer Vollbremsung genügend Platz zwischen sich und einem Lkw zu lassen.

5. Lkw-Fahrer sind schmutzig

Im Laufe der Jahre wurde Lkw-Fahrern das Klischee des schmutzigen und faulen Fahrers angedichtet - eine ungerechte Verallgemeinerung. Viele Fernfahrer verbringen viel Zeit außer Haus und in ihren Kabinen - das bedeutet, dass ihre Hygiene und die Sauberkeit ihrer Kabinen eine Priorität sind.

Es ist wichtig, mit den Mythen und falschen Vorstellungen über den Beruf des Lkw-Fahrers aufzuräumen, um ihn besser zu verstehen. Die Entlarvung einiger gängiger Mythen wird die Attraktivität der Branche für künftige Generationen erhöhen und das Bewusstsein für den Beruf des Lkw-Fahrers als hochqualifizierten Beruf schärfen, der eine wichtige Rolle in unserer Wirtschaft spielt.

Ist Lkw-Fahren einsam?

Bevor man eine Karriere als Lkw-Fahrer in Erwägung zieht, sollte man sich darüber im Klaren sein, was dieser Beruf mit sich bringt. Ein Problem für viele Lkw-Fahrer ist der Umgang mit der Einsamkeit - lange Stunden auf der Straße mit wenig oder gar keiner Kommunikation ist für manche schwierig, für andere aber ein Traum.

Darüber hinaus kann die Abwesenheit von geliebten Menschen für viele eine Belastung darstellen. Es ist jedoch für Fahrer einfacher geworden, mit Freunden und Familie per Telefon oder Videoanruf zu kommunizieren. Es gibt auch viele Foren und hilfreiche Tipps für Trucker, um die Einsamkeit zu lindern.

Kann ein Lkw-Fahrer einen Zweitjob haben?

Angesichts der Lebenshaltungskostenkrise im Vereinigten Königreich ziehen immer mehr Fahrer einen Zweitjob in Betracht. Eine Nebentätigkeit birgt jedoch Probleme und Risiken, vor allem in der Lkw-Branche. Die Fahrer müssen prüfen, ob ihr Unternehmen eine Nebentätigkeit zulässt, bevor sie weitere Schritte unternehmen.

Bei der Ausarbeitung einer Nebentätigkeitspolitik sollten Unternehmen und Betreiber die Auswirkungen auf die Leistung, Anwesenheit und Müdigkeit der Fahrer berücksichtigen. Ganz zu schweigen von der Einhaltung der Arbeitszeiten der Fahrer und der Arbeitszeitvorschriften.

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Freitag 08 November 2024 • Nachrichten und Updates

DART CHARGE ACCOUNT - VEREINFACHEN SIE IHRE ZAHLUNGEN

Miranda Blake

Understanding the intricacies of the Dart Charge system is essential to ensure a seamless and cost-effective experience when using the Dartford Crossing. Familiarising yourself with the payment options, account management, and potential pitfalls can save you from unnecessary fines and headaches. The Dartford Crossing, a vital aspect for commercial traffic, is managed by a sophisticated electronic payment system known as the Dart Charge. This innovative system was introduced to enhance the efficiency of toll collection, eliminating the need for traditional toll booths and enabling drivers to pre-pay or pay online by the end of the day.Wondering what exactly the Dart Charge is? It refers to the payment method used for the Dartford Crossing. The system was implemented to improve traffic flow and provide a more convenient payment experience for users.Drivers have three primary options when it comes to paying the Dart Charge:1. Customers can set up a pre-pay account, which offers automated billing and a discounted crossing rate. Such a hassle-free approach ensures that payments are made seamlessly, with the account being automatically debited for each crossing. For those who don't have a pre-pay account, the option to pay online, by phone, or at Payzone retail outlets is available. Payments can be made in advance or by midnight the following day. The Dartford Crossing is free to use between the hours of 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, providing a cost-effective option for nighttime journeys.Curious as to what the Dart Charge rates are? These vary depending on the vehicle class and whether the customer has a pre-pay account or is making a one-off payment. Here’s a breakdown of the current charges:You can also .Maintaining your Dart Charge account is crucial for avoiding fines and streamlining your crossings. Let’s explore the key aspects of account management.Establishing a Dart Charge account is a straightforward process. Customers can visit the , click "Start now," and select the "Sign in or set up a Dart Charge account" option. Alternatively, they can open a pre-pay account by downloading and submitting an application form.Accessing your Dart Charge account requires the email address registered on the account. If you've forgotten your password, the link on the sign-in page will guide you through the process of creating a new one.Changing your name, address, or the vehicle registration numbers associated with your account can be done by logging into your Dart Charge account, navigating to the "Account management" and "Profile" or "Vehicle management" sections, and making the necessary updates.Customers can review their crossing history and account statements by logging into their Dart Charge account. This feature allows you to track your usage and ensure that all payments have been properly recorded.If your Dart Charge account becomes inactive due to a lack of vehicle registration, valid payment method, or recent crossings, you can reactivate it by addressing the underlying issue. Similarly, a suspended account can be unsuspended by topping up the balance or making payments for any outstanding crossings.When it’s time to close your Dart Charge account, you can do so by logging in, navigating to the "Account management" section, and selecting the "Close account" option. Any remaining balance will be refunded using the same payment method.SNAP Account offers a convenient solution, providing several benefits for drivers and .The system automatically handles the payment for each crossing, eliminating the need to remember to pay or deal with Dart Charge directly.You’ll never receive a charge for late payment. This helps avoid potential fines or penalties associated with missed or late payments, providing peace of mind.We simplify your financial management by including the Dartford Crossing transactions on the same invoice as your other SNAP Account activities. Such consolidation makes it easier to track and manage your expenses.By automating the payment process, we save drivers valuable time. There’s no need to stop and make individual payments or remember to pay by midnight the following day, as is required when paying directly through the government's Dart Charge system.Our Dartford Crossing service is part of a broader ecosystem of road transport services. This integration allows users to manage multiple aspects of their journey, including parking, washing, and fueling, through a single platform.For businesses managing multiple vehicles, we provide an efficient way to control and monitor the Dartford Crossing expenses. The consolidated billing and automated payment system helps streamline accounting processes and reduce the administrative burden associated with managing individual crossings. By leveraging SNAP Account for the Dartford Crossing payments, drivers and fleet operators can enjoy a more efficient, reliable, and stress-free experience when using this crucial transport link.Want to learn more about how to save money on the road? Check out our article on along with our .

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Freitag 01 November 2024 • Nachrichten und Updates

FALLSTUDIE: TWV PARK

Miranda Blake

Situated just 60 minutes from Calais is TWV Park, a haven for truckers looking for a restful night’s sleep. With an impressive 4.7-star rating on Google, TWV has been described by its customers as an oasis and a great place to park. The site offers a range of services including, showers, free Wi-Fi, and 24/7 video surveillance. Emilie, from TWV Park, tells us a bit more. "We offer our customers all the comforts for drivers to rest peacefully. Bicycles are available to rent, and we host entertainment such as football match broadcasts, competitions, and music concerts. Nearby is a shopping centre, and a water sports centre for extra activities outside of TWV." Providing drivers with a wide range of facilities and entertainment is not the only thing the truck park does incredibly well. The safety and security of TWV is something the team has made great progress on throughout the years. "TWV is a secure car park with ESPORG Gold certification. The site has 24/7 security guards, fences, and 80 on-site cameras. All of which are monitored." Emilie explains. Back in June 2023, the site announced its Secure Truck Park project – a project supported by the European Co-Funding programme. This has enabled TWV Park to take further security measures to ensure truck drivers and their cargo safe. Truck stops play a pivotal role in providing a space for truck drivers who have spent long hours on the road something Emilie and the team are conscious of, when making decisions about the truck park. "To improve well-being, truck drivers need safety and comfort from a truck park," states Emilie. TWV does this particularly well when you look at the amount of choice and variety for drivers at the site. Emilie explains the truck park offers "kitchens with all the appliances, food trucks, and brasserie-style on-site meals." She states that other comforts, such as "sanitary facilities, phone charging access, and air-conditioning," are also available. TWV was one of the stops on our Truckpark Tour in 2023 a ten-stop tour throughout the UK and Europe to give back to the tireless truck-driving community. Emilie explained why they wanted to be a part of it. "When SNAP came to us about the tour, we thought it was a great idea to offer the drivers an extra activity in the park." The teams at SNAP and TWV were kept busy throughout the day, handing out free merchandise and having crucial conversations with drivers. "The event went really well, and the drivers were happy to see SNAP and the team at TWV. The drivers enjoyed the entertainment and goodies on offer and appreciated getting to have a chat," states Emilie. By joining SNAP, you'll put your location in front of 190,000 drivers and over 9,000 fleets. For truck stops like TWV, who are constantly striving to grow their business, SNAP provides the opportunity to do so. "We had no hesitations about joining SNAP and found the setup process easy. Since joining, we have had good communication with the SNAP team," says Emilie. To improve your profitability and optimise your site operations, head to .

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Freitag 25 Oktober 2024 • Nachrichten und Updates

ARBEITSZEITRICHTLINIE FÜR KRAFTFAHRER: EIN LEITFADEN FÜR LKW-FAHRER

Miranda Blake

As a lorry driver in the UK, it’s crucial to have a firm grasp of the complex regulations surrounding driver working hours and rest periods. The Drivers’ Working Time Directive (WTD), also known as the Road Transport Directive, is a set of rules that governs the maximum hours a driver can work, the mandatory breaks they must take, and the required rest periods they must observe. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and even the immobilisation of your vehicle.The Drivers’ Working Time Directive is a European Union legislation that aims to ensure the safety of all road users by preventing fatigue-related accidents. apply to those driving vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes, regardless of whether the individual operates within the UK or across the EU.Under the WTD, truck drivers in the UK are subject to a daily driving cap of 9 hours, which can be increased to 10 hours a maximum of twice per week. After 4.5 hours of continuous or intermittent driving, drivers must take a break of at least 45 minutes. Alternatively, they can opt for a split break, where the first is at least 15 minutes, followed by a second of at least 30 minutes.There’s a weekly driving limit for UK lorry drivers, which is 56 hours, while the fortnightly cap is 90 hours. This means that if a driver clocks 56 hours in 1 week, they can only work for 34 hours the following week to ensure they do not go over the 90-hour fortnightly limit.In addition to the driving time restrictions, the WTD also imposes limits on the total number of hours a driver can work per week. Average weekly working time, including both driving and non-driving tasks, must not surpass 48 hours, calculated over a 17-week or 26-week reference period. Maximum working time in a single week is 60 hours, provided the 48-hour average is not exceeded.The WTD requires to take a daily rest period of at least 11 consecutive hours, which can be split into 2 periods with the first being at least 3 hours long. Drivers can also opt for a reduced daily rest period of nine hours, but this can only be done up to three times per week. Additionally, a weekly rest period of at least 45 hours is mandatory, although this can be lowered to 24 hours once in a 2-week period.While the WTD applies to the majority of UK lorry drivers, there are certain exceptions that may apply in specific circumstances. For example, those who do not drive more than 10 times within a 26-week period or 15 times within a timeframe exceeding 26 weeks may not be required to monitor their working time directive.Failing to adhere to the WTD can have serious consequences for both drivers and . Drivers caught in breach of the regulations can face fines of up to £1,500, and if they break the rules more than 5 times in 28 days, they may be taken to court and have their vehicle immobilised.For fleet operators, the onus is on maintaining compliance throughout the entire fleet. Neglecting to implement sufficient measures to monitor and enforce the WTD can result in the DVSA issuing a notice to improve, and in extreme cases, a requirement to cease operations until the issues are resolved.To effectively manage driver working hours and ensure compliance with the WTD, fleet operators should consider investing in tachograph-integrated fleet management solutions. These purpose-built technologies allow for efficient monitoring of driver behaviour and automatic logging of driving and working time data, making it virtually impossible for non-compliance to go unnoticed.By partnering with a trusted provider like , fleet operators can leverage cutting-edge fleet management tools and gain access to a comprehensive network of service partners, making sure that their drivers have the support they need to stay compliant and safe on the road.There’s also the in the UK to consider. It’s proving to be a big problem within the industry. The industry has seen a drop in HGV drivers – the pandemic delayed 30,000 tests for new drivers, and Brexit hit fleet companies hard – with many European truck drivers leaving the UK. A 2023 report from SNAP suggests the sector could reach a 'tipping point' in the next 10-15 years. It may prove that the Drivers’ Working Time Directive is just what the industry needs to make the profession desirable again and provide better balance for drivers. Learn more about what can be done to tackle the driver shortage by .