Author Archives: Harry Bowyer
Will I Need an Operator’s Licence for my Van?
The general rule has been that goods vehicles below 3.5 tonnes do not need an operator’s licence but that is likely to change in May of 2022 as a result of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the UK and EU following Brexit. The rules have not been set in […]
Bounce Back Loans and The Traffic Commissioner
In several recent Public Inquiries in which we have been involved Traffic Commissioners have shown an unhealthy interest in “Bounce Back” loans taken out by operators at the beginning of the Covid 19 pandemic. These loans were taken out under rules requiring that the maximum amount loaned must be equal […]
5 Ways for Directors and Transport Managers to Stay out of Prison
One of the less obvious perks of being involved in the Transport Industry is quite how easy it is to find yourself in a criminal dock facing charges that could alter your life forever. It is often the case that the director or transport manager was oblivious of the cause […]
Problems Ahead for Traction Only Operators.
In recent Public Inquiries it has become apparent that the Traffic Commissioners expect more from operators who are picking up third party trailer than a mere driver walk around check. The Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness at 3.3 details what must happen between traction services and third-party trailers. In particular, “Traction […]
Remote Public Inquiry Hailed as a Success!
Remote Public Inquiries are being used by Traffic Commissioners to try to plough through the backlog created by the Covid 19 pandemic. Not every case is suitable for such a hearing and Commissioners seem to be cherry picking those that are. The signs seem to be promising that they are […]
Do I Need a Transport Manager?
Who needs a Transport Manager? A transport manager is necessary if you hold a Standard National or Standard International Operator’s Licence. This is because there is a requirement to show professional competence for both types of licence. This is the same for both goods vehicles and passenger carrying vehicles, regardless […]
Using a Mobile Phone at the Wheel – DPP v Ramsey Barretto Judgement
The Appellant in this case was caught using a mobile telephone to film an accident as he was driving past. The High Court held that for the purposes of a prosecution under Section 41D of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and Regulation 110 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) […]
Continuation Fees: A Stupid Way to Lose Your Operator’s Licence
Those of you who have glanced at their Operator’s Licence might have noticed that there is a review date five years after the grant of the Licence. In order to continue the licence after that date the Operator must pay a continuation fee for the licence to continue. The Office […]
How Do You Deal with Drivers’ Hours Infringements? – What are Your Obligations as a Transport Manager?
Even in the best run transport business there will inevitably be occasions when drivers cut corners, make mistakes or in some cases deliberately bend the rules. This article looks at the practical processes and procedures Transport Managers and operators should have in place to: Monitor driver compliance and identify drivers’ […]
What Does Offence Code SP30 Mean?
You receive a Single Justice Procedure Notice (SJPN) or Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) and see code SP30. What does this mean? Is it for exceeding a statutory speed limit on a public road or for exceeding a 30 mph limit in particular? It is a common misconception that SP30 […]
