Tachographs and Drivers Hours :

The Penalties For Drivers

Many drivers don't appreciate what a serious matter the rules on drivers hours and tachographs are until they end up at court in the dock.  Even small infringements carry potentially painful fines and in some cases even time in prison.

This article contains a summary of penalties for the main offences relating to tachographs and drivers hours.  Each of these are the maximum penalties for each infringement.  It is not uncommon for drivers to attend court facing half a dozen  or more offences.  The record we've dealt with was 98 for one driver.

Infringements of the Drivers Hours Rules

Exceeding maximum driving time                                                                  Fine of £2,500

Not taking sufficient daily or weekly rest                                                        Fine of £2,500

Failing to take 45 minute break for 4.5 hours of driving                                 Fine of £2,500

Infringements of the Tachograph Rules

Making a false tachograph record                                          Unlimited fine / 2 years in prison

Forging the tachograph seal                                                   Unlimited fine / 2 years in prison

Not handing records in to the operator on time                                              Fine of £5,000

Using vehicle without tachograph equipment                                                 Fine of £5,000

Failing to use a tachograph                                                                             Fine of £5,000

Not handing records over on request by VOSA / the police                          Fine of £5,000

As Operators have to notify the Traffic Commissioner about all convictions and fixed penalties of its employees, it is worth all Operators reminding their drivers of the serious consequences if they fail to comply with their duties so far as drivers hours and tachographs are concerned.