Transport and Logistics
The Netherlands (TLN) expects that foreign drivers at Dutch
car parks will have to spend their weekend rest periods in their cabs now that this is
prohibited in Germany. The trade association is therefore calling for European
regulations and enforcement regarding driving and rest periods.
At the end of
March, following in the footsteps of Belgium and France, passed a law that
from spending their 45-hour rest period in the cab. TLN expects that the law, which is likely to come into force this month, will lead to problems. It remains unclear
where the driver is actually permitted to sleep. The mandatory 45-hour rest period is not
permitted in the cab, nor is a place where the driver is forced to
to remain in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle is, according to German
law. If the driver does not comply with this 45-hour
rest period, this will result in a fine of between 60 and 180 euros
per hour. The fine can amount to between 2,700 and 8,100 euros.
TLN describes Germany’s decision as strange, as the European Commission is soon to
proposals intended to clarify the ban. “It is incomprehensible
that Germany has introduced additional rules that are not aligned with European regulations.
After all, these are European driving and rest time regulations,” says TLN chairman
Arthur van Dijk. “We need a level playing field in Europe. Greater
cooperation on enforcement. And consistent enforcement across the board.” Van Dijk calls on the
(outgoing) minister to bring Dutch enforcement into line
with enforcement in Germany, Belgium and France.
Editorial LogistiekProfs
