HGV Changes To Deliver Fairer Deal For Hauliers

Rules governing HGVs will be modernised across England and Wales, transport minister Claire Perry announced today.

The government plans to raise the national speed limit from 50 mph to 60 mph for lorries travelling on dual carriageways, following the increase in speed limits for HGVs on single carriageways announced in July this year.

Today’s announcement will ensure that as of 6 April 2015, lorry drivers have speed limits that are better suited to a modern transport network.

Transport Minister Claire Perry said:

“It is really important that speed limits for lorries reflect the needs of a modern transport network and improved vehicle technology”.

“Britain has one of the best road safety records in the world and I am determined to ensure this continues. This change is about ensuring rules for lorry drivers’ speed limits are in line with other larger vehicles on our roads, creating a fairer and more proportionate system.”

The changes to speed limits will update previous regulation dating back to the 1980s.

The government also published today responses to a consultation on issuing on-the-spot fines for HGV drivers who take insufficient breaks from driving on longer journeys. The consultation showed clear support for government plans to give enforcement officers another weapon in the fight against irresponsible driving by both foreign and UK drivers.  Final plans are still being drawn up.