Driving Logbooks Proposal
A proposal that aims to make logbook systems more straightforward for commercial drivers while at the same time tackling the issue of driver fatigue has been released by the Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA). Under the proposal, the number of hours commercial drivers drive and work has not been altered, but driving and on-duty have been combined into a category called "work time" and are no longer distinguishable.
It is proposed that within a 24-hour period a driver can work a maximum of 13 hours and must have at least 11 hours rest (made up of two half-hour rests - taken after every 6 hours work - and a continuous break of 10 hours). The 24-hour period will be reset after each 10-hour rest period. Nothing changes with regard to the 24 hours rest required after 66 hours of working time.
The LTSA also proposes that drivers of goods service and tow trucks operating within a 50 km radius will be exempt from logbooks.
The greatest proposed change involves penalties. If an offence occurs it will fall under one of four grades, instead of just two as previously. The first two grades relate to log book use and would result in drivers being penalised with the issue of infringement notices and driver demerit points. Any offence falling under the other two grades relate to driving hour breaches. These will continue to be heard in a court, but only the highest level of offending would incur automatic licence disqualification.
| Submissions close 19 March. Submissions may be made in writing to Driving Hours and Logbook Review, Land Transport Safety Authority, PO Box 2840, Wellington, by fax (04) 494 8608, or by email to info@ltsa.govt.nz . Copies of the paper can also be requested from the same address, or downloaded from the LTSA's website at www.ltsa.govt.nz/resources/index3.htm |
Contact for Enquiries
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
Pastoral House
25 The Terrace
PO Box 2526, Wellington
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Fax: +64 4 894 0720
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