What Are The UK Tachograph Rules For Vans And Trailers?

What Are The UK Tachograph Rules For Vans And Trailers?

If you're a van driver in the UK, you may be wondering whether you need to use a tachograph and, if so, what the rules are. A tachograph is a device that records a driver's hours of work, breaks, and rest periods. It is designed to ensure that drivers comply with the legal requirements for driving hours and rest periods. In this blog post, we'll explain the UK tachograph rules for vans and trailers.

Tachograph Rules For Vans And Trailers: Do I Need to Use a Tachograph?

In the UK, you are required to use a tachograph if:

• You drive a goods vehicle with a maximum weight of over 3.5 tonnes (including any trailer being towed) for commercial purposes, and
• The vehicle is registered in the UK or another EU member state.

If you're not sure whether you need a tachograph, you should check the weight of your vehicle and trailer and the purpose of your journey. However, there are some exemptions and exceptions that might apply in certain cases.

For example, if you're using your vehicle and trailer for personal purposes, such as moving house or going on holiday, you won't need a tachograph. However, if you're carrying goods as part of your business, even if it's a small business, you'll probably need a tachograph.

If you're not sure whether your vehicle requires a tachograph, you can check with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) or the Traffic Commissioner.

Tachograph Rules For Vans And Trailers: What Are the Tachograph Rules?

If you are required to use a tachograph, you must comply with the following rules:

• Record all driving time. You must use the tachograph to record all your driving time, including time spent driving on private roads, and any other work-related activities that contribute to the total driving time.

• Take breaks and rest periods You must take regular breaks and rest periods in accordance with the EU Drivers' Hours Rules. These rules set out the maximum amount of driving time allowed before you must take a break or rest period. For example, if you're driving for more than 4.5 hours, you must take a break of at least 45 (or a 15 and 30 minute split) minutes. These rules can be a little complicated, which is why we've simplified them for everyone!

• Keep the tachograph records for at least 12 months. You must keep your tachograph records for at least 12 months, and make them available for inspection by the DVSA or the police if requested.

• Ensure the tachograph is working correctly. You are responsible for ensuring that the tachograph is working correctly and accurately recording your driving time. If there is a fault with the tachograph, you must get it repaired as soon as possible.

• Follow the manual entry rules. If there is a problem with the tachograph, or you're unable to use it for any reason, you may need to make manual entries in a separate record. You must comply with the manual entry rules, which include recording your name, the date and time, and the reason for the manual entry.

Tachograph Rules For Vans And Trailers: Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with the tachograph rules can result in penalties and fines. The amount of the penalty will depend on the severity of the offence, but it can range from a £30 fixed penalty to a maximum fine of £5,000. Definitely not worth the risk!

If you repeatedly fail to comply with the tachograph rules, you could face more serious consequences, including having your operator's licence suspended or revoked.

Tachograph Rules For Vans And Trailers: Conclusion

If you drive a van or tow a trailer as part of your work in the UK, it's important to understand the tachograph rules and comply with them. Failure to do so can result in penalties and fines, and could even put your licence and livelihood at risk. Make sure you know whether your vehicle requires a tachograph, and if so, ensure that you're following the rules for recording your driving time, taking breaks and rest periods, and keeping accurate records. By doing so, you'll stay on the right side of the law and help to keep our roads safe.