DVSA explains why fines total of non-GB HGVs is significantly higher

At the end of last month, the DVSA released data that showed hauliers from outwith Great Britain collectively paid over 9 times more in fixed penalty notices compared to their British counterparts. Following an information request from Trans.INFO, we can now reveal the reason why.

Readers may recall that the figures showed Non-GB-registered HGVs were subject to over 25,500 mechanical checks – some 29% more than lorries registered in Great Britain.

With regards to why this is, the DVSA told Trans.INFO:

“DVSA’s examiners can complete operator visits and desk-based assessments on GB vehicles that are part of the operator licence scheme, so there are many ways to check compliance. We can’t do this with vehicles / operators from other countries, so it is essential that DVSA carry out more roadside checks on non-GB vehicles and drivers to ensure safety on our roads.”

Another observation from the data was that despite non-GB-registered trucks were checked almost twice as much, and had offence rate not overly higher then British-registered lorries, the total value of fixed penalty notices given to non-GB HGVs was over 9 times higher.

“The enforcement quarterly data we have published does not account for other financial penalties that can be issued to GB operators following prosecution action. This could be for the most serious multiple offences at roadside or following subsequent site visits and investigations. We can also report GB operators to the Traffic Commissioners for their consideration of action.”

In addition to this, the DVSA added: