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4x4 News & Events Dealers using low-loader trailers face fines warns RMIF Published: 14th Aug 2009 Original article: http://www.difflock.com/magazine/4x4_News/Dealers_using_low-loader_trailers_face_fines_warns_RMIF.shtml

RMIF  www.rmif.co.uk

Vehicle dealers risk being stung by an on-the-spot £200 fine if they are caught using a low-loader trailer behind their tow vehicle if is not fitted with a tachograph, warns the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF).

The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) has recently introduced a £200 fixed penalty fine for the use of low-loader trailers behind tow vehicles without a tachograph. This is being implemented by traffic enforcement officers at the roadside.

Dealers could be caught out if they believe that their tow vehicle is too light to require a tachograph. The law states that a tow vehicle can have a gross vehicle weight (GVW) up to 3500kgs without a tachograph being required. However these vehicles will have a gross combination weight (GCW) in excess of 3500kg when towing a trailer. Therefore the tow vehicle has to be fitted and operated with a tachograph. This regulation also covers heavy 4x4 cars as well as commercial vehicles that are towing trailers.

The law on the use of tachographs for vehicles with a GVW/GCW over 3500 kgs in weight has been operational for many years but it is only recently been enforced since the implementation of VOSA’s fixed-penalty regime in May this year.

RMIF Director Sue Robinson commented: ‘A number of dealers have already been fined for operating their low-loader trailers without a tachograph fitted or used in the tow vehicle. To avoid incurring a fine, dealers should consider the fitting of a tachograph on any tow vehicle that is likely to be used in combination with a low-loader.’