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Foreign drivers could escape hefty fines

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While foreign freight haulage drivers could face nothing more than a tiny penalty if they break rules surrounding the new driver training legislation, UK drivers could end up with a fine of up to £1,000.

The fines are part of proposed plans put forward by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) as a way to implement the Compulsory Training Directive, Motor Transport reports.

They relate to Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) and the need for a Driver Qualification Card (DCQ). Driver CPC is a scheme for LGV (and PCV drivers) who professionally operate throughout the UK. For LGV drivers, the card becomes mandatory by September 10th, 2009.

According to the report, the maximum fine that a foreign freight haulage driver who could not produce their DCQ at a roadside check would face would be just £30.

While all drivers face the £30 fixed-penalty notice, the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) will only be able to check UK drivers' training records through the new database. This means that foreign drivers could escape possible court action and maximum fines of £1,000.

Freight Transport Association (FTA) head of policy Joan Williams told the site that her organisation was trying to persuade the Driving Standards Agency to remove the requirement for drivers to carry the DQC at all times.

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