New legal requirements for light goods vehicles

The CWU communication workers’ union has alerted its members who drive light goods vehicles (LGVs) at work to legal changes affecting speed limits and motorway driving.

Under the European Speed Limiters Directive, more vehicles will have to be fitted with a road speed limiter. The limiter is already fitted on new LGVs between 3.5 and 12 tonnes, and since last month it has been required on older models if they are used on international journeys. Those used solely for UK journeys will require the limiter from January 2007.

These vehicles will be limited to the same 56mph speed limit as heavier vehicles, and will be prohibited from using the outside lane of three- and four-lane motorways.

The CWU adds that the motorway speed limit for goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes and buses is likely to be lowered from January 2008.

More information is available from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency at www.vosa.gov.uk