Major driving law changes have been accepted which will see certain drivers given an extra six months to adapt to new standards for road safety.
Motorists and industry experts have been calling on Transport for London to introduce a grace period to mandate that any HGV over 12 tonnes will need to hold at least a three-star rating or fit the Progressive Safe System to operate in Greater London.
This will start from October 28, 2024, although during a meeting of the London Councils’ Transport and Environment Committee yesterday, it was agreed that a grace period would be introduced to allow drivers to have more time to adapt to the new rules.
All vehicles must have the Progressive Safe System fitted to receive a new permit, with TfL urging drivers to make themselves aware of the new changes, or they could face a penalty charge notice of up to £550.
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Drivers will have until May to ensure they are compliant with the PSS
PAAn initial grace period was originally in place until January 31, 2025, although this has now been extended until May 2025, when enforcement will begin.
These changes will improve road safety by giving HGV drivers a wider view of the road, with TfL data showing that the DVS has already had a positive impact on reducing the number of accidents.
During the meeting, there was some concern about the potential safety impacts that could arise by delaying the rules until May 2025.
It was also highlighted that the new grace period does not mean that drivers have longer to avoid the changes, with experts urging motorists to make the required amendments as soon as possible.
If someone holds a safety permit for a zero, one or two-star rated vehicle granted before June 24, 2024, it will expire on October 27, 2024.
Chris Yarsley, senior policy manager at Logistics UK, commented on the outcome of the negotiations, calling it "welcome news" for motorists who were concerned about making the switch in time.
He added that drivers who "deliver everything the capital needs" would be buoyed by the grace period to adapt to the changes.
The expert said: “After intensive negotiations between TfL and Logistics UK, AICES and RHA, we welcome the decision that provides our members with the time, and peace of mind, to ensure they can comply with the stricter standards.
"Our members remain committed to the very highest standards of road safety, and the extension will ensure that there is sufficient time for hauliers to source and fit the required equipment."
Yarsley also thanked London Councils for ensuring that there would be a steady flow of information from TfL when the phases are rolled out.
This is set to include real-world testing of equipment, measures to mitigate phase two equipment obsolescence, details of equipment and fitters’ availability and mitigating sensory overload of drivers.
However, Yarsley called on all fleet operators and drivers to continue their preparations ahead of the new DVS standard as the regulations are still set to change on October 28.
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One expert said it was 'welcome news' for the industry
PAHe said: "The London Councils’ decision does not change this date, but it does provide a sensible grace period to ensure operators can comply without incurring financial penalties.”
