There have been many posts on here and in the BR about foreign lorry drivers and why they don't get prosecuted.
Well, one year ago last month, GFP's as we know them started to be handed out by VOSA.
The downside is that it has affected UK lorry drivers too, but only if they were illegal anyway.
I say downside because there is no leeway for us anymore to get a 'warning' for any minor misdemeanor, and as VOSA have to be seen to be doing their job by the amount they raise, it's changed lorry driving quite a bit for us.
It's reassuring ( and worth it) to see the figures and statement released by VOSA yesterday on the first 12 months revenue and where it came from.
>>Bad brakes and excess weight are the most common offences among UK and foreign drivers who have been issued with fixed penalties in the past twelve months.
Since 28 May 2009 Graduated Fixed Penalties have been issued by VOSA examiners and those drivers that fail to confirm a satisfactory address within the UK are required to pay the penalty ‘on the spot’.
The rules are part of a wider scheme and depending on the severity of the offence a one off deposit requirement of between £300 and £900 can also be issued. Since the scheme was launched it has generated nearly £ 3.5million.
The number of fixed penalties issued to UK drivers is more than 11,500 and to foreign drivers nearly 22,000.
VOSA Sanctions Manager, Karen Farr said:
The introduction of graduated fixed penalties and deposits has strengthened VOSA's enforcement capabilities. This has meant that not only has the scheme provided an effective sanction for dealing with offending foreign drivers, but has also proved to be a valuable deterrent to all drivers regardless of nationality.
“We have already seen increases in compliance for certain offences now that drivers are aware that we are serious about tackling road safety.” <<
Now they have the power to immobilise a lorry and enforce a full 45 hour break to foreign lorries breaking the drivers hours laws, we've all noticed an increase in EU lorries parking up voluntarily.
Pat
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Graduated Fixed Penalties new
Graduated Fixed Penalties new
