If you operate Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) or vans in the UK, then you need to be aware of the latest guidance.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and Traffic Commissioners have launched a critical new strategy to significantly boost LGV compliance and road safety.
It represents a newfound, targeted approach with a stronger focus on high-risk sectors and increased roadside enforcement.
Understanding these changes is crucial for everyone, whether you’re a van operator, fleet manager, or an LGV driver.
It’s essential you’re aware of the new strategy and guidance and that you meet your legal obligations and contribute to safer roads for all.
Why do statistics call for the urgent focus on LGVs?
The numbers paint a rather bleak picture.
While many UK van and LGV operators are diligent, a concerning proportion aren’t.
Over 50% of the 20,000 LGVs checked annually by the DVSA result in enforcement action. Common issues include serious vehicle defects, insecure loads, and significant overloads.
In addition to this, LGVs fail their annual MOTs at a rate four times higher than Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) and significantly more than cars.
This often points to a lack of robust safety systems compared to those required for HGV Operator Licence holders.
Tragically, LGVs are involved in a disproportionate number of serious and fatal road incidents, too.
From 2023 to 2024 alone, 3,000 incidents involving LGVs resulted in a fatality or serious injury, compared to under 1,000 for HGVs.
These statistics highlight a clear and urgent need to address LGV safety and compliance head-on.
What Does the New LGV Enforcement Approach Look Like?
This new strategy isn’t solely about penalties; it’s fundamentally about raising overall standards across the board through:
Industry engagement
The DVSA will be actively engaging with LGV trade associations to clarify rules and provide essential guidance.
Firm enforcement
Alongside guidance, expect firm enforcement action, including fines, sanctions, and further penalties for non-compliance.
Highly focused efforts
With roughly ten times more LGVs than HGVs on the road, enforcement efforts will be highly focused. The DVSA will target specific groups or geographical areas where non-compliance is most prevalent.
For example, LGVs used in construction and car transport have shown increased prohibitions and will be a high priority for future checks.
This targeted approach aims to influence behaviour where it’s most needed, making LGV compliance the norm across all sectors.
Partnering for safer roads
The DVSA is keen to collaborate. If you represent an LGV trade body or are an LGV operator or driver with best practices to share, they want to hear from you.
Improving LGV road safety is a collective effort, and industry input is invaluable.
The tragic cost of non-compliance
The real-world consequences of failing to secure loads or maintain vehicles are devastating.
The tragic death of 11-year-old Harry Dennis, killed by an inadequately secured scaffolding board from an LGV, serves as a powerful and heartbreaking reminder.
The driver, Russell Le Beau, was sentenced to prison, and Harry’s mother is now a fierce advocate for stronger LGV regulations to prevent similar tragedies.
This underscores the sad human cost of neglecting safety.
How to ensure your LGV fleet is safe and compliant
For all UK van and LGV operators and drivers, adherence to regulations is non-negotiable. Here’s how to ensure your operations are ready:
Follow employer & government guidance
Always consult and adhere to the latest guidance on driver conduct, such as the Guide to Maintaining Roadworthiness, and other documentation or strategy on vehicle maintenance, and load security.
Regular daily walkaround checks
It is highly recommended that vehicle operators conduct robust daily walkaround checks, ideally using a Walkaround Check application. If there are issues, ensure defects are reported and vehicles undergo timely and thorough maintenance.
Operators can invest in a Vehicle Scheduling application or equivalent functionality in a Transport Management System to keep tabs on schedules and bookings throughout their entire fleet, beyond just the annual MOT.
Proper load securing
Invest in appropriate equipment and training to ensure all loads are secure, preventing dangerous incidents.
Understand operator licensing
Even if not a fully licensed HGV operator, understand the principles of responsible operation. Resources like the Goods Vehicle Operator Licensing Guide (GOV.UK) offer essential information.
Conclusion
The new DVSA and Traffic Commissioners’ strategy marks a key shift towards enhanced LGV compliance and road safety.
The concerning statistics on LGV defects, MOT failures, and disproportionate involvement in serious incidents underscore the urgent need for this targeted approach.
By combining focused enforcement, industry engagement, and a collaborative spirit, the aim is to raise standards across the board.
