Driver Statutory Rights & Duty Limits
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Rule Set Quick Reference
| Statutory Provision | GB Domestic Rules (<50km Local) | EU Rules (Express Trunks / Mixed) |
|---|---|---|
| Max Driving Without Break | 5 hours 30 minutes | 4 hours 30 minutes |
| Mandatory Break Length | At least 30 mins (45m if duty >8.5h) | At least 45 mins (or 15m + 30m split) |
| Daily Driving Limit | Max 10 hours | Max 9 hours (extendable to 10h twice/wk) |
| Mandatory Daily Rest Off-Duty | 10 Continuous Hours | 11 Continuous Hours (9h reduced) |
*Statutory rest breaks require absolute relief from passenger/bus responsibility. Active stand wait time is Period of Availability (POA), not a break.
Refusing an Unsafe Order (Road Traffic Act § 40A)
You are personally liable in criminal court for driving an unroadworthy vehicle. Dispatch instructions cannot shield you from licence revocation or prosecution.
Mandatory Phrasing to Dispatch:
"Under Section 40A of the Road Traffic Act and Working Time Regulations, this vehicle / duty arrangement is non-compliant and unsafe. I remain fully available on depot premises for compliant, safe duties."
- Document: Write the defect or hours cut in the duplicate vehicle book and keep your slip.
- Stay on site: Do not leave the depot, preventing accusations of unauthorized absence.
- Register the record: Use the 3-tap log to archive the incident anonymously.