LandyLad:
Thanks Coffe-H,
but I am a little worried about it because on my very first ever professional commercial drive, (3 months ago) I went to 4 hrs. 31 minutes before I got parked and put my tacho onto BREAK (it was a 45).
So it could look like I am deliberately pushing my driving times to the limit and falling foul of the rules too often.
You’ve gone over by a minute twice in 3 months and one of them was just using POA instead of break. Doubtful that will even make VOSA’s radar twitch.
The TM shouted at me when I got back, but I had only done what the full time driver (acting as mate) told me to do. It just goes to show that even other drivers who are supposed to be looking after you even on your 1st day out couldnt care less about your licence - he only cared about getting his cup of tea in a nice quiet place!
There you are then, result, you have learned two very important lessons as well as the correct way to book breaks and POA.
Transport managers do shout, and other drivers are all out for themselves
You mentioned computers and how you have no grey areas, neither do we, you have to be ■■■■ on!
vanderbart:
Can VOSA fine me for not using POA at all? Just brakes only? Or I should use at least some POA during my work? Telling you guys I’ve been working as driver for some time and still getting confused…
There’s no legal requirement to use POA and VOSA won’t be the slightest bit interested if you don’t use POA
@ LandyLad
Are you sure you won’t get paid if you put the tachograph on break, most companies will stop you 45 minutes for the first break but all companies I’ve driven for will pay for any other breaks needed.
I would have thought that it was in the companies interest for you to use break whenever you legally can.
Obviously I’m not doubting your word on this, but if you haven’t already it would be worth checking with your TM (that’s the bloke who shouts at you ) to make sure
It could save you some grief if you can use break instead of POA without losing money.
tachograph:
There’s no legal requirement to use POA
There is.
tachograph:
and VOSA won’t be the slightest bit interested if you don’t use POA
They probably won’t you’re right. Neither will they be interested in most aspects of the WTD, they’ll be interested in FPN offences, its easier, more straightforeward, cost effective and a huge aid to road saftey !!
