from 28th May 2009, they will have the authority to issue fixed
penalties for offences committed by drivers at the time of road
enforcement checks.
It is hoped that the extension of search powers to the VOSA examiners
will improve the level of road safety.
The fixed penalties will be graduated for drivers' hours and
overloading offences, depending on the seriousness of the breach.
Joan Williams, the head of road freight and enforcement policy at
Freight Transport Association (FTA) said: "Drivers will be more
accountable for the roadworthiness of their vehicles and could face
fixed penalties if they fail to conduct their daily walk round checks
properly."
"Crucially, foreign drivers who fail to comply with the rules will not
be able to slip through the cracks anymore as any driver issued with a
fixed penalty who cannot provide a suitable UK address will be
required to pay a deposit at the roadside and if necessary the vehicle
will be immobilised until the deposit is paid."
Here is a summary of the introduction of graduated fixed penalties and
deposits from VOSA:
* The legislation came into force on 1st April 2009, with a 'go
live' date of 28th May 2009
* As of 28th May 2009 VOSA officers can issue fixed penalties for
offences committed by drivers at the time of roadside enforcement
checks
* If a driver is unable to provide an acceptable UK address, they
will be asked to pay an on the spot deposit equal to the likely
penalty.
* VOSA will have the authority to immobilise prohibited vehicles
in certain circumstances, as well as vehicles where drivers have been
unable to pay a required deposit.
* Operator licence holders will be required to notify the Traffic
Commissioner of fixed penalties issued to their drivers and OCRS
scores will also be also affected
* A driver offence record of fixed penalties and court action will
be maintained by VOSA. This information will be used by VOSA to
consider any further action, such as a warning letter, further
investigation or referral to a Traffic Commissioner who may consider
taking action against the driver's vocational entitlement.
