HGV Drivers to Begin Seeing Rule Changes Soon

The Government has announced a number of updates to current HGV rules that should make for safer roads and a more efficient haulage industry. HGV drivers should begin seeing those rule changes very soon in their day-to-day work. One of the changes will likely be received positively, while the other may not be.

According to transport minister Claire Perry, speed limits for lorries travelling on dual carriageways will be increased from April 6, 2015. The current 50 mph national speed limit will be raised to 60 mph. The move is being made after positive results have been seen through increased speed limits on single carriageways. This is the change HGV drivers will appreciate.

Higher speed limits allow drivers to reach their destinations more quickly while also keeping better pace with the flow of traffic. The increased efficiency and safety offered by the higher speed limits are things the haulage industry has been pushing for in last few years.

As for the other rule change, it may not be so welcome. Perry says the Government is now working on new rules that will enable authorities to issue on-the-spot fines to drivers who do not take the rest breaks mandated by law. Not getting sufficient rest is a problem among both UK and foreign drivers operating on British roads. The Government believes the increased enforcement ability will help officers crack down on such drivers.

How long it will be before the new enforcement measures are put in place remains to be seen. However, we would expect them to be ready in time to be implemented with the speed limit increase.

A Professional Driving Career

HGV drivers enjoy a career that is unique in many ways. While there is a plethora of government regulations they need to pay attention to, drivers also enjoy the freedom offered by working on the open road. Professional drivers have the opportunity to see new places, meet all kinds of people and work in an environment that does not involve a supervisor constantly looking over the shoulder.

The rule changes now being implemented by the Government will make professional driving that much better by increasing safety and efficiency. If you are just starting out on your career path, we urge you to consider becoming a professional HGV driver. Moreover, if you are the victim of redundancy, it is never too late to begin a new career.

The HGV Training Centre offers comprehensive training for new HGV drivers. We help our students through every step of the training and licencing process, making it as easy and stress-free as possible. We even go so far as to send one of our trainers with the student on the day of his or her practical skills test. It is part of our commitment to producing the best HGV drivers in the business.

You can start your training right away when you contact the HGV Training Centre. New classes are always forming at our 45+ facilities around the UK.

Sources:

1. HGV UK – http://www.hgvuk.com/?p=18210